Start Growing Your Own Herbs
Gardening is a hobby that many enjoy; even those who reside in a Rosetti apartment can get in on the fun with! All you need is one or two sunny windows to get started.
What Herbs Should I Grow?
For an indoor garden, it’s best to stick to herbs that won’t become overgrown or grow too quickly. Kitchen staples such as basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley are a must-have for every garden. Remember – starting with seeds is less expensive; however, they require more attention and may take a few months before you are able to reap the benefits.
How to Manage Your Plants:
Start with your containers. You can opt to plant multiple plants in a large container that is at least 6-12 inches deep. You can also use individual pots that are at least 6 inches for each plant. If you’re starting with seeds, you can use any small container, and transport the plants into larger containers once they are between 2 – 4 inches tall. Finally, you’ll want to ensure that your containers have drainage holes and are sitting on a saucer or similar dish that will hold the drainage water.
When transporting your plants to a new container, be sure to use potting mix instead of garden soil, which makes it more difficult for the water to pass through after time. Create a 2-3-inch layer of potting mix at the bottom of your container, before gently loosening the roots to flare out your plant, and gently place it into the new container. Finish filling in the container with potting mix, leaving just an inch or so free at the top for water. Water your plant immediately after transporting it to its new container. Do not overwater your plants. The best way to test whether your plant needs to be watered is to gently poke your finger into the soil. If the soil is dry an inch or two into the container, give it some water. Watering slowly is best; you’ll want to watch the bottom of the container and stop watering once water starts to leave the container and drain into the saucer below.
Pruning (or snipping) your plants will encourage healthy growth. Snipping the tips off of basil, rosemary, and similar plants will encourage the plant to branch more. With your cilantro and parsley – which are bushier – you can remove entire stems from the outer edge of the plant to encourage new growth. Once you’ve started your indoor herb garden, you’ll be able to use the herbs as soon as you see new growth! Don’t let apartment living stop you from growing your own herbs. Impress your friends with your green thumb and have some great meals made with fresh herbs!