Many people have been growing herbs in pots for years now, right there on their windowsills. But growing herbs in pots is not limited to the windowsill . Indeed, these herb pots can be put in any room that you wish including the hallway. They can even be attractively arranged on the patio just outside the lounge but it would be especially ideal if they can be located in the kitchen itself. This would be really neat as you only have to stretch out your hand to pick the few leaves you need for your stew on the hob!
Growing herbs in pots is no more demanding than growing herbs in an outdoor garden. The three vital conditions that must exist for all plants to flourish are good soil, water and enough sunlight . And the same goes for growing herbs in pots . Whether they are grown inside the house or outside, in containers or in the ground, all herb plants need water, good soil and plenty of sun shine.
So when growing herbs in pots in the kitchen or elsewhere in the house, the vessels should preferably be placed on a south or west facing windowsill. This will give the plants the best chance of getting enough sunshine.
Where herbs are concerned, different categories can flourish with varying amounts of light but they must have light. As such, when there is insufficient natural light, then artificial lighting becomes a necessary alternative, particularly when growing herbs in pots indoors. This form of lighting often comes in the form of fluorescent tubes or "grow lamps".
Another important requirement for growing herbs in pots is a well-drained soil. Do remember not to use soil that is too rich. To ensure this, mix two parts of sterilized potting soil with one part of coarse sand. You can further make certain that the soil is sufficiently well-drained by first placing in the pot around two and a half centimetres of pebbles or small stones .
Additionally, enhance the soil used for growing herbs in pots by adding one teaspoonful of lime for every pot of 5-inch size.
Use a spray can for watering . Spray-mist the plants and moisten the pebbles they are standing on. Take care to keep the plants appropriately wet when conditions are humid. But do keep in mind that herbs grown in pots do not require the same amount of water as their counterparts outdoors. Make sure that they are not over-watered, which will harm the roots making them soggy and water logged.
Choose any herb for your growing herbs in pots project. Just remember to choose those plants that generally do better in pots. One example is the mint, which is recommended for being put into a pot as they are aggressive growers and will take over your herb patch if left unchecked, making it difficult for the other plants to thrive.
For a comprehensive guide to choosing the right herb plants refer to "Successful Herb Gardening ~ Step-by-Step" which is available from The Herb Gardening Site.
Generally, it is not difficult to care for a home herb garden particularly a small indoor one that consists of only a few pot s . Also if they are kept in the kitchen, it makes it really easy to use the herbs as they are conveniently on hand at any time a dish needs perking up.
I have a small pot of Aloe Vera in the utility room. Should I accidentally cut my finger or burn my hand in the kitchen, I quickly cut off a section of leaf and apply it for immediate relief.
With the tips and tricks given above you should now be able to at least experiment with a few small herb pots on your kitchen windowsill and care for them like a pro. Who knows? You may graduate to your ideal home herb garden in pots or otherwise, sooner than you think.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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