Wednesday, November 23, 2011

4 great herbs to grow indoors

Herbs are generally easy to grow and can be used in a wide variety of cooking, beverages and even fresh right off the plant. If you are new to gardening and are a little intimidated by growing most things you can start with a herb as they are rather resilient and take minimal care. Some of these listed below will also do well year round with proper conditions indoors.  So when you think you want to give the gardening thing a try check out one of these herbs.

Chives - These grow well in smaller pots in half to full day of sunlight. Make sure to keep the water moist, but not soaking. As you take small clippings this plant will continue to regrow and will do well most of the year in the same place. Seeds are abundant so when they do go dormant and die out you will have lots of seeds to work with.

Basil - This is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking. It is used in salads, sandwiches, soups and in sauces. You won't find a lack of uses for it. And, it has a very nice aroma. Some varieties are pretty hardy, but all will do well near a south facing window that gets a lot of sun and with regular light watering. Pluck off the larger leafs to consume and let the smaller ones grow. Indoors this can grow pretty much year round.

Thyme - This is another nice herb than can be used in a variety of ways. It works well with oil, garlic and other Mediterranean flavors. This is a low growing herb and can be harvested by clipping small bunches of stems. Thyme will do well near a south facing window, but does not require lots of water. It is very easy to grow and some varieties have a lemon like scent. This dries very well.

Mint - Mint is a great herb because it is not very fussy and will spread quickly if you let it. It has a nice aroma and adds to many dishes and even drinks. Make sure to trim it and use it often to make sure it continues to regrow. If left to fully mature it will bolt and try to produce more mint plants. This also dries well.

No comments:

Post a Comment