It might be surprising to some, but most herbs grow better in an indoor herb garden. Majority 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; hence they cannot withstand the outside environment. Their leaves would easily wither and it would be easy to uproot them.
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 do not need constant exposure to sunlight. However, some should be taken 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. They just need to be exposed outdoor from seasonally.
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. Place them near the windows in the kitchen which should always be left open or at least ajar. Just a few hours under ample sunlight is all it takes to 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. Put them in places where there is most sun exposure. If you happen to have limited spaces near the open areas, another option is to use chains to hang them.
Taking care of the herbs – on watering, pruning and soil maintenance
Indoor plants need as much water as outdoor plants. You can have them watered every other two days. Drowning the soil will make it too soggy to absorb other nutrients from the soil.
You can also do occasional pruning. But do not remove drying foliage immediately. Letting them fall on the pot would make them possible fertilizers. However, if there are too many falling leaves, you will have to take away 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, make it a point to 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. Trim 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.
