by Judith C Evans

Created on: February 08, 2010

If you live in a small apartment or have very little outside garden space, be of good cheer – you can still grow your own herbs.  Many herbs grow beautifully in containers, whether on a patio or a window sill.  Group attractive pots together to show off the beauty of your plants.  Bring some of your herbs indoors during the winter.  Container gardens allow flexibility in arrangement and choice of plants, and provide a fresh supply of the herbs you love.

Choose small herbs that grow slowly, such as basil, chives, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, and summer savory.  Annuals, such as basil, grow for one season and must be replaced each year.  Perennials, such as chives, continue to grow season after season.

The Best Containers

Unglazed clay pots with drainage holes are the best containers for most herbs.  The porous material and drainage hole will regulate moisture and prevent root rot.  If you already have plastic containers, use them for herbs that tolerate more moisture, such as mint.  The container sizes should range from 6 to 12 inches in diameter; the smallest pots will fit on a window sill.

Soil Composition

Use well-drained, loose soil.  Do not use garden soil, which is heavy and will become too compact in the container.  For a good soil mixture, combine one part potting soil with one part each peat moss and vermiculite or perlite.  You can also purchase already prepared potting mix at your local garden center.

Water and Light

Herbs will require more frequent watering in a container than in a garden.  The temperature, humidity, and types of plant and container will determine watering requirements.  Daily watering may be necessary, especially for plants in smaller containers.  On hot sunny days, you may need to water outdoor plants twice a day.  When the top of the soil feels dry, water the plant slowly until a small amount of water leaks out of the drainage hole.  Avoid overwatering; even herbs that prefer more moisture may develop root rot.  Do not fertilize herbs as frequently as other plants; they will lose some of their flavor. 

Place your herbs in area where they will receive at least 6 hours of light each day.  Turn containers periodically to ensure even light exposure.  If your plants are indoors, make sure they are located near a sunny window or fluorescent lights.  Indoor plants will need sufficient light to prevent a “leggy”

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