subject: Herbs In Pots [print this page] Herbs In Pots Herbs In Pots
Once you have figured out how you want your garden to benefit you and select the right options to satisfy you; the rest becomes fairly easy. I offer free tips on classes and types of
herbs. Herbs are fairly simple and can be grown anywhere. In this instance, I would like to discuss growing herbs in pots.
Grown outside, nature provides the growing environment (the sun,soil, and water). In an indoor garden; the environment is provided by the gardener. Most herbs in pots are grown indoors so let's look at the differences.
Most herbs prefer sunny locations. Outside they usually get approximately six to seven hours of good sunlight. Indoors you will get the most sunlight if you place your pots where they are visible to the south and west (in the northern hemisphere). You will, most likely. need to supplement the light with fluorescent lamps or "Grow Lamps". Your plants will grow towards the direction that benefits them. If your plants are healthy and don't lean; then your light requirements are balanced.
When you put your herbs in pots, the soil is entirely up to you. Keep in mind that herbs really don't need fertilizer. Herbs prefer the soil be a little bit alkaline and they need good drainage. I put one inch of gravel in the bottom of the pot and then mix half with sterilized potting soil; one fourth sand and one fourth vermiculite. To assure the correct balance, add a teaspoon of lime for every five inches of pot size. Finish by planting your seed by just barely covering it with soil. This leads us to water.
Watering herbs in pots is fairly simple. At first, when a seedling is sprouting and trying to get it's roots attached, it needs lots of water. But be sure your pot has good drainage. After the roots attach, just lightly mist the plants often. But do not keep the soil so moist that the roots stay wet or soggy. Herbs like to keep their feet dry.
There are many benefits in growing herbs indoors. Most herbs have a pleasant fragrance; garlic, basil, and oregano are a few examples. Indoors makes it convenient for cooking or pruning. Also, you can tend your garden regardless of the weather and you don;t have to worry about frost.
Overall, it is fairly easy to maintain herbs in pots. It would help to perform yearly repotting and light feeding for all indoor potted plants. Check them for pests. Mist them with water often and prune them. Pruning encourages new growth. So harvest your herbs regularly and store the excess herbs by drying or freezing them (I have insights to storing herbs). Follow these pointers and you will have herbs that will be the envy of your family and friends.
If you have questions or challenges about herb gardening, just contact me .
