5 Simple Steps To Creating An Indoor Herb Garden
For a fun summer project that can have delicious results, let's get some tips on starting your own home, herb garden.
Herbs are the superheroes of plants. They contain healing properties that may treat many health problems, but with just a few sprigs, they can also transform an ordinary dish into a gourmet meal. These sturdy greens need very little space to thrive, and while it's not for everyone, if you're considering making space in your home to bring fresh herbs and veggies to the table, here are some helpful tips to assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of creating an indoor garden.
- Location, Location, Location. This may be the most crucial decision you'll make on the overall success of your indoor garden. Plants need a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of sun every day. And while the natural, south-facing sun is preferred, you may also choose a mini-indoor greenhouse kit, which includes lighting. There are plenty of kits available online that are affordable and easy to assemble. Read the reviews and fine print to make sure you have everything you need to get started. Once you decide where to put your garden, the sooner you can start enjoying delicious, fully organic herbs and veggies. Regardless of how big or small your home is, there's no question that an indoor herb garden will make a delightful addition to your home.
- Dress It Up! Picking the containers for your plants is as important as a location in setting up your indoor garden. Your decision on pots for your seeds should be based on several factors, not just how it looks, although we think dressing your plants for success is a fun way to give your garden a fun fashion sense. The planters should have enough room for root growth and good drainage to avoid the plants' roots from water rot. Also, consider spacing if you plan to put more than one plant in a container. Row containers can be home to several plants, but give them a minimum of 4 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. It would be best if you also avoided clay pots as they tend to hold too much moisture. We recommend plastic, metal, or rubber pots with a drainage hole and a catchment for proper water drainage.
- Pick Your Favorite Plants! Herbs tend to grow well in an indoor environment, but do some additional research if you want to include veggies. They require more room and have wide-ranging grow rates and harvest at different times of the year, depending on when you plant. If you plan to stick with herbs, pick your favorites to include in recipes. Parsley, cilantro, oregano, thyme, basil, and chives tend to do best. But other herbs like rosemary and peppermint are also excellent options. Whether you want a variety or want your go-to seasoning, pick the plants that you love and your garden will be an indoor inspiration!
- Get Dirty! Every step in setting up your garden is essential, but the soil you use will affect your plants' ability to grow. While plants need sunlight and water, they require other nutritional supplements to give them the best chance for success. The most common potting soil will have the basics which will provide for proper water drainage. Don't use potting mix or dirt from outside. They won't have enough room for the roots to breathe, and dirt from outside will bring pests inside. Best to go with a trusted brand of potting soil. You can make your potting soil, but we don't recommend it. There are some great videos on YouTube about making potting soil if you're looking to save some cash, but buying potting soil will save you time.
- Indoor Garden Maintenance. Like anything in life, you need to spend some time on maintaining your garden. Watering is a big part of nurturing your plant. You'll need to water them a few times a week, but each plant is different. It's helpful to allow the soil to dry between waterings to ensure that it's not being overwatered. Roots are susceptible to rot when they sit in water too long. It's also a good idea to reposition plants, so they get light from the opposite direction. This can strengthen the plants as they reach for the light in a new direction. Fertilizers can also help increase your plants' growth. Seaweed is an excellent way to bring nutrients to your plants without using animal-based fertilizers. But the most standard, indoor fertilizers work well too.
Whatever you decide to plant, enjoy the process. There's a feeling of accomplishment when you grow plants from seed to table. Whether that's herbs or veggies, inspire your friends and family with a homegrown garden!