Creating an indoor herb garden offers the reward of having fresh herbs within arm's reach during the winter months. Paying close attention to each plant's needs helps ensure healthier, more disease-resistant plants. Good choices for an indoor garden include basil, bay, chives, mint, parsley and thyme.
Soil Requirements Good soil is an essential ingredient for healthy plants. Organic soils are a good choice for herbs and can be enriched by adding compost, worm castings and bone meal.
Containers Heavy clay pots are porous, allowing water and air to pass through and also provide good drainage. Pots which are a minimum of six inches across will ensure adequate growing room. Wash all pots, new or used thoroughly with hot soapy water before using.
A window which has a southern or western exposure will generally provide the four-six hours of light a day which the plants need. Fluorescent lighting is an excellent alternate to natural light.
Geneva Thomas, Smith County Master Gardener
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