Growing your own herb garden inside is a great way to quickly get the yummy and pretty rewards that these plants provide. But are you wondering why your indoor herb garden isn't doing well? Look over our indoor herb garden tips to improve your indoor plant skills.
Most herbs don't need much care but, like us, each has its preferences. Luckily, there are basic truths that apply to most herbs grown inside. Keep reading to learn how to take care of an indoor herb garden so your fresh herbs—and homemade meals—grow well all year long.
Getting Started with Indoor Herb Gardening
If you're wondering how to start an herb garden indoors, the first thing you need is a sunny spot. While most herbs require at least 4 hours of sunlight per day, some can survive with fewer. I'll go over the light needs of different herbs later on. You'll also need containers, soil, seeds or starter plants, and a watering can. Basic stuff!
When considering where to situate your indoor herb garden, place it near a sunny window. South-facing windows are best. Giving your herbs adequate sunlight ensures they grow briskly and taste vibrant. If space near windows is limited, consider supplementing with grow lights. More on that soon!
The Best Herbs for Indoor Growth
One of the most common queries for indoor gardening is "What are the best herbs to grow indoors?" When selecting herbs, opt for low-maintenance varieties that appreciate comparable environments to your home. Excellent picks include:
Basil - Requires plenty of light. Grows well in containers.
Mint - Thrives with moderate light. Spreading roots suit containers.
Oregano - Adapts to low or bright light. Doesn't need much water.
Chives - Easy to grow. Tolerates partial shade.
Cilantro - Quick grower. Likes cool temps and consistent moisture.
Parsley - Biennial herb. Takes a while to germinate but grows forever!
Rosemary - Perennial. Needs well-drained soil and at least 6 hours of sun.
Thyme - Not fussy about light or water. Use culinary and lemon thyme.
Starting with 2-3 herb varieties suits beginners best. You can always add more herbs later as you ace indoor gardening!
Providing Adequate Sunlight for Your Herbs
Arguably the most asked indoor herb question is "How much sunlight do indoor herbs need?" Light requirements depend on the herb. But generally, herbs need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Measure sunlight hours in your space. If fewer than 4 hours, supplement with grow lights.
Adequate sunlight keeps herb plants robust and flavorful. Without enough light, they grow lanky and tasteless. For basil and rosemary, 6 hours is minimum. If your space lacks sufficient natural light, employ full spectrum grow lights to simulate sunlight. LED grow light panels work beautifully and run cheaply.
Watering Your Indoor Herb Garden
Figuring out watering tips for indoor herb gardens stumps many rookie gardeners. Learning each plant's needs is key. Over and under-watering equally cause issues.
As a rule of thumb, check soil moisture daily by probing the first 1-2 inches with a finger. If dry to the touch, it's time to water. Well-drained containers and soil prevent moisture issues. Most herbs thrive best when kept consistently and evenly moist. But take care not to oversaturate.
Take mint, for example. This moisture loving plant prefers consistently damp (but not soggy) soil. Rosemary and oregano fare better with dry spells between waterings. Basil likes even moisture too. The ideal watering approach mimics outdoor conditions, with a soaking drink followed by drying. Investing in self-watering containers helps!
Temperature and Humidity Considerations
What's the ideal temperature for growing indoor herbs, you may wonder? The best range falls between 65-75°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Herbs grow happily at average room temperature. But keep in mind that edible plants flourish best at 60-75°F.
If dealing with temperature fluctuations in your space, use propagation mats or grow lights to add warmth. Moving plants to warmer rooms helps too. As for humidity, most indoor herbs thrive best at 40-60% relative humidity. Improve moisture levels by misting plants daily or using a humidifier.
Selecting the Best Containers
What are the best containers for growing indoor herbs? I recommend using containers with drainage holes at the bottom to prevent soggy soil. Plastic pots, ceramic planters, fabric grow bags and self-watering vessels all work well. Make sure containers are big enough for root development, with a minimum size of 4 inches wide and deep.
I'm fond of self-watering pots for indoor gardening. They have built-in reservoirs to evenly disperse water as plants need it without any effort from you! For small herb plants, use individual containers. This makes watering and care easier. But filling a window box lets you grow a medley of herbs together.
Getting Plants Started from Seeds
Ready to plant your first indoor herb garden? You can begin from seeds or nursery starter plants. For tips on sowing seeds indoors, use seed starting mix and quality herb seeds. Check seed packets for planting times and directions. Generally, plant seeds just below mix surface.
Once sown, be patient. Some seeds (like parsley) take eons to sprout. Use plastic dome lids or baggies to maintain even moisture and humidity until they pop up. Place seeded containers on propagation mats or near appliances emitting warmth to encourage germination. Grow lights also work!
Preventing and Managing Pests
Even indoor gardens deal with pests like spider mites, fungus gnats, mealybugs and aphids. So what are some common indoor herb garden pests and how do you address them? Start by keeping close watch for critters. Check leaf undersides for webbing, honeydew and tiny black dots. Sticky paper traps monitor flying pests.
As soon as an infestation appears, isolate the plant. Wiping leaves with mild soap and water often eliminates mild outbreaks. For bigger issues, use horticultural oils or neem treatments. They suffocate and deter pests without harming plants.
Ongoing Herb Garden Care
Caring for indoor herbs over time is easy. As long as plants get ample sun, water, and nutrients, they'll keep growing steadily. To encourage bushy, compact plants, pinch off an inch of new growth often. This makes them branch out versus stretch upward.
Repotting into bigger containers lets roots expand as plants mature. Use potting soil with compost or organic fertilizer to nourish herbs. And occasionally tidy plants by plucking yellowed leaves and removing dead bits. With attentive, consistent care your indoor herbs will flourish for years running!
Frequently Asked Questions
What herbs grow well together inside?
Herbs that grow best together inside are the ones with similar light needs. And the best ones for your indoor garden are those suited to the sunlight you can provide:
If your indoor herb garden has only partial shade, consider growing chervil, cilantro, mint, parsley, tarragon, and thyme.
If your indoor herb garden is in a sunny spot or you have artificial light set up, choose basil, oregano, and rosemary.
If your herbs look lanky and don't taste as strong as they should, they're signaling that they probably need more light.
Can I put coffee grounds in my potted herbs?
Despite what you've heard - no, used coffee grounds are not good for potted herbs or any other houseplants, especially when applied directly to the pot. While coffee grounds are said to benefit plants in general, their effects can hurt indoor plants.
Coffee grounds have been promoted as a nitrogen-rich, acidic addition to an outdoor gardener's compost pile but lately, their value as a healthy soil amendment is being re-examined.
Will my herbs last all year long indoors?
Yes, you can grow many herbs in your indoor garden all year long. Plants are more likely to survive the winter inside if you:
Choose herbs that grow well in low light.
Provide extra light during winter.
Keep your herbs away from cold drafts from doors and windows, as well as warm drafts from heaters and kitchen appliances.
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