Tools and material needed to start a herb garden:
- various containers with drainage holes
- waterproof saucers to contain excess drainage
- potting soil or a soil-less seed-starting mix
- natural fertilizer
- herb seeds or plants of your choice
Choice of containers:The pots you plan to use can come from various sources ranging from recycling to buying ''designer" containers.You can group certain herbs together in a pot when they share common needs. Plants that need particular care should be planted individually. The diameter of the pots should be 4 inches for individual plants and 10 inches for grouping plants together.
Choosing herbs you wish to grow:Choice herbs to grow on the windowsill are those that remains dense and compact. Thyme and oregano are always a good choice, you can also grow mint offered in a wide array of flavors. Parsley is a good choice as long as you keep it especially when kept trimmed. These plants all do well in small containers ranging in 4 to 6 inches in diameter.Other choice of herbs popular include basil, cilantro, dill, rosemary and sage.
More Tips:
- Most herbs grows well in a sunny, south-facing window, supplemental fluorescent lights or grow lights will help during the winter season.
- Place the plants so that the foliage are not in contact with cold windows.
- Turn the pots around occasionally so that the plants get sunlight on all sides to grow evenly.
- Be aware of the preferences of each variety of herbs you grow. For example, basil enjoys warmth, while sage and rosemary prefer cooler temperatures.
- Pinch back branching plants such as basil. This will help keeping them shrubby instead of leggy.
- When choosing herbs to grow, go for the compact or dwarf varieties.
- Growing herbs on the kitchen windowsill will keep fresh herbs close at hand when preparing meals.