Growing herbs indoors

The winter season is upon us; however, the cold temperature outside does not mean we have to wait until spring for fresh herbs. By cultivating herbs indoors, you can enjoy fresh herbs throughout the year. Indoor herb gardening requires far less space and is less expensive. Herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow indoors because they adapt to containers well and do not require elaborate care. A little light, some well drained potting mix and consistent watering goes a long way. While nearly any herb can be grown inside with enough attention, some varieties thrive better than others. Hardy, low maintenance herbs such as basil, parsley, mint, chives, cilantro, rosemary, oregano, and thyme tend to perform best. These herbs tolerate the lower light levels and adapt well to the steady indoor temperatures common in winter. Light is the most important element to success with herb gardening indoors. Winter sunlight can be scarce, and even the brightest windows, south and west exposures, provide often less than the optimum amount of sunlight. Most varieties prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, which can be difficult to achieve in the long winter months though some herb varieties such as chives and cilantro can get by with less light. If plants grow on windowsills, rotate pots often so that each side gets enough light for uniform growth. Herbs that are not exposed to their preferred light conditions will become thin and spindly, produce smaller leaves, and have reduced aroma. To compensate, many indoor gardeners turn to inexpensive LED grow lights. These energy efficient light sources come in compact forms suitable for small spaces and when used with simple timers can ensure consistent lighting. For optimum light exposure, position lights 6 to 12 inches above the plants and set timers for 12 to 16 hours per day. Watering is the next important environmental requirement. Plant herbs in containers with a well-drained potting mix. A basic potting mix with perlite, vermiculate or coarse sand works well. Pots should have drainage holes and saucers to collect water runoff and aid in maintaining humidity. Overwatering is a common mistake gardeners make. Herbs in lower light conditions grow more slowly and use less water. The watering requirements vary depending on the species of herbs being grown, but all should be watered when the potting mix is dry to the touch, an inch below the surface and before plants begin to wilt. Herbs prefer temperatures between 60 to 70 °F. Although most herbs can survive temperatures in the mid to low 40s, others like basil cannot. Herbs also require a balance between humidity and adequate air circulation. Air that is low in humidity will cause leaves to dry out, while too much humidity can lead to fungal issues. Our homes tend to be driest in winter especially if the home has forced air heat. To create more humid conditions, group plants together, place plants near an open water source or use a humidifier. If conditions are too humid, increase air circulation and spacing between plants. https://extension.psu.edu/growing-herbs-indoors Herbs do not require as much fertilizer as other plants, however they will benefit from periodic light fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Harvest herbs indoors as you would if grown outdoors. Most do well with periodic snipping as they are needed in the kitchen. Leafy annual herbs like basil can be cut back severely when harvested. Using a knife or sharp shears, cut just above a leaf or pair of leaves. Leave approximately 4 to 6 inches of stem for later growth. Do not cut back perennial herbs like chives, mint or oregano as heavily, cutting no more than the top 1/3 of growth. https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/yard-and-garden-growing-herbs-indoors You can grow them as house plants or just in winter. Give growing herbs indoors a try and start enjoying fresh herbs year-round.