Growing Herbs Indoors
Tips on Growing Herbs Indoors
Having fresh herbs to add to your cooking is not only delicious but healthy as well; with just a few tips on growing herbs indoors, you can soon be contributing to your good health in a tasty way.
There are many advantages to growing herbs indoors. First, herb plants can be quite a lovely addition to your décor. Whether planted in individual pots or combined in a larger pot, the variations of color, texture and flowers will add interest to your home. Second, adding fresh herbs to your cooking will be a breeze with the plants growing right there in your own kitchen; simply reach over and snip what you need. If you live in a seasonal area where temperatures drop below 30°, herbs grown in a traditional garden would die back unless they were dug up and brought indoors. Growing herbs indoors in containers means you’re already at an advantage.
When committing to growing herbs indoors, you will need the proper materials to begin. Just about any type of pot will do, but ensure the herb will have ample room to set root. Use a good grade of soil with the opportunity for drainage. A liquid fertilizer should be applied weekly to your planted herb to ensure it is receiving the minerals and vitamins it needs.
While there are common herbs associated with container gardening indoors, just about any herb can be potted and grown successfully. Growing herbs indoors is a simple matter of learning about the plants you’ve chosen. Most plants will require sunlight, in some cases around 6 hours of light each day. Artificial light may be needed for best growing results in areas with long winter periods; otherwise, placing the containers near a sunny window should suffice.
Temperatures for growing herbs indoors should be temperate and consistent. There are a few herbs that require a cool off period, such as chives and tarragon. During the winter months, you will notice these herbs beginning to slow in growth, indicating their need to hibernate. Simply placing them in the refrigerator or an unheated area such as a garage or basement to rest for a few months will greatly benefit them. After that period, just bring them back into the light and warmth and they will revive.
When committing to growing herbs indoors, you will need the proper materials to begin. Just about any type of pot will do, but ensure the herb will have ample room to set root. Use a good grade of soil with the opportunity for drainage. A liquid fertilizer should be applied weekly to your planted herb to ensure it is receiving the minerals and vitamins it needs.
A renewed interest in growing herbs indoors has been emerging due to a more health conscious generation. By following a few easy tips on growing herbs indoors, you may soon have your own gourmet herb garden at your fingertips.