Growing a Winter Herb Garden

Did you know that many herbs can be grown indoors? This makes having year-round flavor and aromas not only continuous but also an easy alternative to drying or freezing all your harvested herbs specifically for winter use. All you need is a bright, sunny window (or room) for growing a winter herb garden.

Some of the most suited herbs for these potted environments include parsley, thyme, basil, chives, oregano, mint, and sage. You can either transplant your herbs from an outdoor garden or easily grow them from seeds. Most herbs thrive in well-draining, compost-enriched soil but will do equally well in a regular well-draining potting mix. You can grow them together in one large container or in individual pots, depending on your needs and preferences.

If you're starting your own, you can place them on top of the fridge till the seedlings pop up. Then you'll have to move them to an area with more light-at least six hours or more. You can also thin down the plants as needed. If you want to transplant the seedlings into separate pots, you should wait until they have developed their second set of leaves.

The care of your winter herb garden will require only minimal maintenance. This includes watering whenever the soil becomes dry to the touch. Since winter air is much drier, especially indoors, you may want to give your herb garden a good misting every day or two to keep humidity levels up. Setting the pots on a pebble-filled tray of water can increase the humidity as well but be sure the plants don't become too wet, as this will eventually lead to root rot.

Indoor temps should remain no cooler than 55-60 degrees F. at night and at least 70 degrees F. during the day. Herbs transplanted from the garden may also need to be checked occasionally for hidden pests that may be lurking about. However, these can normally be taken care of quite easily with a soapy bath or neem oil (which is perfectly safe for both you and the plants).

Other than that your winter herb garden shouldn't require much else. In return of all your efforts though, you will no doubt be rewarded with healthy plants that you can enjoy not only for their taste and aromas, but also for their attractive appearance. While everything else in the outdoor garden is still drab and lifeless, you'll be inside relishing your beautiful winter herb garden.

Resources: personal experience