by Ginger Sanders

Created on: September 17, 2008   Last Updated: September 19, 2008

Growing herbs indoors is no more difficult than growing them in the garden. Indoor plants need basically the same conditions as herbs grown outdoors, sunlight, water and a well-drained soil that is not too rich. In fact, as long as you are fairly conscientious, in some ways I think it is easier to grow indoors in that you have more control over light and water than when nature has a free rein.

Indoor gardens are a great pick me up for winter blues as well as a kid friendly project. You also have the added bonus of nice looking indoor plants in close proximity to your cooking environment!

Here are some guidelines for a nice healthy herb garden.

1. Start with good stock. Buy your herbs from reputable places, don't buy seed packets which are out of date. Don't buy straggly or unhealthy looking plants.

2. Light
A bright sunny spot is best. It is great if you have a south or west window location for your garden. I don't so I use a grow lamp. It was very inexpensive and I have used the same one for five years and never replaced the bulb.

3. Soil
When planting, mix two parts good potting soil and one part perlite. I have also had very good luck with your basic Miracle Grow Potting Soil. Some places recommend adding 1 teaspoon of lime per 5-inch pot to make the soil sweeter.

4. Water and Drainage
Drainage is very important. There should be at least an inch of gravel at the bottom of each pot for good drainage to be possible.

Be careful not to over-water, this is the main cause of death for most indoor plants. Once a week should be sufficient, check the soil before watering, if it still feels moist wait and check again the next day. Don't drench your herbs. Herb roots will get soggy and die. Misting and grouping the plants on a tray of pebbles will help keep them humid.

5. Food
If your winters are short you should not have to feed your herbs. If you have a longer cold season, try the slow release pellets you can buy in garden centers.

The following herbs work best for indoor containers.
Basil, Oregano, Mint, Rosemary, Parsley, Mint, Sage, Thyme, Angelica, Chamomile, Fennel, Dill, Lavender and Chives.

I have also had good luck on the past with catnip and cat grass but suggest that you plant them in a separate cat friendly container away from your other herbs. Cats will destroy all the others while playing with the ones they love!

If you don't want to hassle with separately acquiring the stuff needed to make the indoor herb garden, there are many great kits you can purchase.

Learn more about this author, Ginger Sanders.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.