Consider these Three Points for Having an Indoor Herb Garden
It might be surprising to some, but most herbs grow better in an indoor herb garden. A large number of herbs are annuals. Annual herbs and plants only have a year lifespan. They grow and bloom in one season then within a year, they die. You may think that this type of herbs is too costly, but you actually extend the life of your annuals.
Here are some key points explained in establishing an indoor garden.
Knowing the easy-to-grow indoor herbs
Annuals are the best type for indoor gardens. Since their lifespan is limited, they cannot be exposed continuously to changing weathers. Their roots usually have small growth; which is why they cannot stand the outside environment. Their leaves would easily wither and they could be easily uprooted.
Some varieties of basil like Thai, Holy Basil or Tulsi and lemon, chives, scented geranium, lavender, rosemary, sweet woodruff and lemon verbena are some of the annuals appropriate in indoor settings. These could be grown in small pots and they could survive without constant exposure to sunlight. However, you need to take some outdoors once in a while. These would be further explained in the succeeding parts.
On the other hand, some perennials could also survive in indoor environments. A seasonal outdoor exposure is something they need.
Having the right locations
Window areas, door openings, atriums and any area inside your house with natural lighting or close proximity to outside ventilation are the most suitable places for indoor herbs. In the kitchen, put them near the windows that should always be left open or at least ajar. Just a few hours under ample sunlight could make your plants healthier.
If you are into aromatic herbs, you most definitely want them placed in various parts of the house. But do make sure that you take them outside for at least one to three hours daily. Too much sunlight will cause their roots to dry up and that would result to frequent wilting of the leaves.
Perennials could also stay indoors but as much as possible expose them to sunlight regularly. Allot them the spots where there is most sun exposure. If you have limited space near the open areas, you could use chains to hang them instead.
Taking care of the herbs – on watering, pruning and soil maintenance
Indoor plants need as much water as outdoor plants. You can water them every other two days. But never drown the soil as this will make it too soggy to absorb other nutrients from the soil.
You can also do occasional pruning. But do not take out the drying foliage immediately. Letting them fall on the pot would make them possible fertilizers. However, if there are too much falling leaves, you have to remove some of them. They may be too moist, thus killing the roots.
Your soil should have regular peat moss or compost supplements. At least every three months, dig up an inch from the surface and put in a new batch. This is also a basic in growing herbs in pots.
Before annuals die, start repotting so you would not have to start planting all over. Cut off a healthy part of the herb. Each cut piece should have some roots and foliage already this will make it easier for you to grow them.
Now these three easy key methods would ensure you of a flourishing indoor herb garden all year round.
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