Grow Herbs Indoors

Grow Herbs Indoors

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t indulge your green garden thumb. Bring inside the perennial herbs you grew this summer such as rosemary, thyme, and tarragon and start from seed some annuals such as basil, parsley, and dill. It’s not only fun but also saves money and enhances many a meal.

Herbs grow well, but slower, indoors, and the required conditions are similar to those of most houseplants.

Bringing them in: Dig up perennial herbs before the first frost and hose them off to get rid of unwanted pests. Pot them using a commercially prepared potting soil in containers at least 6 inches in diameter to assure good drainage and adequate growing area.

Gradually adjust the plants to lower light conditions by placing them in a shady area for a week or two. When new growth appears, the plants are ready for a sunny window.

Seeding: Fill your pot with potting soil and place the seeds on top. Cover the seeds lightly with potting soil, press down, and water enough to dampen the soil. Place the pot in a plastic bag and tie shut, or cover with plastic wrap, holding in moisture to aid germination. Once the plants sprout, remove the plastic and place in a west or south-facing window.

Temperature: Many herbs thrive in cool temperatures, usually around 65 degrees. Some, however, such as bay, dill, and most mints prefer temperatures slightly lower.

Air circulation: Air in most homes during the winter is dry and still, creating the perfect setting for insects and diseases. Allow enough room between plants for good air circulation.

Fertilization: Feed indoor herbs enough to keep them productive but not so much that they grow leggy and spindly. During winter’s shorter days, when growth is slower, feed only once a month. As the days get longer and the plant’s growth becomes more vigorous, feed weekly. You can use an all-purpose liquid fertilizer.

Water: Pots, particularly those made of clay, dry out more quickly. To determine if your plant needs water, simply stick your finger into the soil. If it’s dry, add water. But be cautious: Over-watering plants can kill them.

Pests: Spider mites, whitefly, and aphids can be brought on by dry, indoor conditions. Combat these pests with a homemade remedy of one to two tablespoons of flaked Ivory soap and one gallon of water. Spray all parts of the plant, especially the underside of the leaves, once a week when pests are present.

To experiment more, try growing these herbs, known for their compact growth and strong flavor: Grolau Chives, fernleaf dill, English mint, spicy globe basil, Greek oregano, broadleaf thyme, Vietnamese coriander, blue boy rosemary, dwarf garden sage, and creeping savory.

Georgiana Marshen is a horticulturist and a freelance garden writer.

Upload Your Own Stories, Photos and Videos

Every week, American Profile magazine brings you stories that celebrate the people and places that make America great. Now we want to hear your stories and see your photos, videos and even audio.

 Start Uploading Now!

 

Discuss this Article