Helpful Hints for Growing Herbs Indoors
Herbs have four basic needs: Light, water, proper temperature and fertilizers.
Light: Find the sunniest location or grow under lights. Bright light from windows with southern-western exposure is ideal.
Water: Proper watering is the single most important requirement. A thorough watering is essential, not merely sprinkling. In general soil should be kept barely moist. Avoid overwatering.
Humidity: Set pots on trays or saucers with a layer of pebbles. Keep water in tray at all times but do not allow pots to stand in water at any time. Terra Cotta pots allow more rapid evaporation than plastic and can be saturated by soaking from time to time. Cool air humidifiers are helpful.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is from 50 - 70 degrees F. Most herb plants prefer cool night temperatures. Avoid placing plants on or near radiators, air conditioners or fans and away from drafts of cold or hot air.
Fertilizers: Weak solutions of water soluble fertilizers (15-30-15 or 10-10-10) should be applied monthly. It is a good idea to alternate fertilizers. Weak or dilute strength solutions indicate 1/2 recommended strength on package instructions.
Harvesting: Careful pinching of new growth will supply a selection of fresh herbs par excellence for many culinary uses. Wash plants weekly with warm water to keep them dust and insect free. A mild soap solution may also be used for washing. Herbs suitable for growing indoors: Aloe, Bay, Basil, Chervil, Chives, Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, Myrtle, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Scented Geranium and Thyme.
