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” appearance.
If you bring your perennial herbs indoors during the winter, allow the plant to gradually acclimatize. Beginning in early fall, bring the plant indoors for a few hours each day. Make sure that the plant has adequate light. You may not need to water as frequently when the plants are indoors; water only when top of soil feels dry, and only until a little water leaks out from the drainage hole.
Care and Harvesting
Herbs with similar water and light requirements can grow in the same container. You may also want grow herbs with similar uses (such as Italian cooking) in groups.
To encourage full, even growth, harvest and pinch back your herbs regularly. Remove dead leaves, and do not allow your plant to bloom. To harvest, use a knife to cut back the top leaves and stems. When harvesting annuals, allow 4 to 6 inches of the plant to remain. For perennials, harvest only one third of the plant. Once harvested, herbs can be preserved by drying on a screen or freezing (culinary herbs only) in plastic bags.
Check frequently for common indoor pests such as aphids, spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. Do not apply toxic pesticides to culinary herbs; gently wash plant with a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly.
Conclusion
Whether for cooking, medicinal use, or simply decoration, you can grow your own herbs no matter where you live. Take time to learn the proper care of these useful plants, and you will enjoy the flavors, fragrances, and colors of fresh herbs all year.
Sources:
Caccia-Silva, Jeanne MS, RD, LDN. Growing Herbs in Containers, http://jeannecacciasilva.com/2009/04/growing-herbs-i n-containers/ (accessed February 7, 2010).
Hyde, Brenda. Growing Herbs in Pots, http://oldfashionedliving.com/herbgardens4.html (accessed February 7, 2010).
University of Illinois Extension. Growing Herbs in Containers, http://urbanext.illinois.edu/containergardening/herb veggie_herbs.cfm (accessed February 7, 2010).