If you’ve been waiting for just the right time to plant culinary herbs, don’t wait any longer! Growing herbs indoors can be fun, practical, and rewarding. All it really takes is a little planning and care and you are on your way! Here are a few tips on getting started:
(1) Choose a bright spot. A nice window sill or sunny area indoors will work fine. The herbs need at least five hours of sunlight per day in order to thrive.
(2) Choose a pot that is at least 6 inches in diameter and 6-12 inches deep. You can plant several herbs in a large or wide pot. Make sure the pots have holes in the bottom for drainage. Be sure to get a base of some sort for the bottom of your pot to catch any excess water.
(3) Choose a soil mixture that is well-draining. I recommend an organic potting soil if you will be using your herbs for culinary purposes.
(4) Choose some small herb plants from your favorite nursery. I recommend starting with chives, basil, mint, parsley and thyme. You can also add some lavender, pansies or nasturtiums for color.
(5) To plant, add about an inch of gravel in the bottom of each pot. Next, add about 2-3 inches of soil. Then plant your herbs. Add more soil on the top – to about an inch below the top of the pot. Water well and allow the pot to drain. Place the herbs in your chosen location.
And don’t forget to water as needed – every few days!
Here is a quick pasta recipe of mine that uses fresh herbs – Herbed Angel Hair Pasta.
