how do you keep a herb garden in your kitchen

How to Have a Thriving Kitchen Herb Garden

• If at all possible, grow them outside. Yes, a spritely row of plants would be delightful on your kitchen windowsill. ...
• But if you absolutely can’t, get a light setup. ...
• Seeds are not for beginners. ...
• Grow what you eat. ...
• Know how to trim. ...
• Know which plants work best together. ...

Full Answer

How do you take care of an indoor herb garden?

Keep your herbs watered regularly. Do this by placing small gravel in a tray and placing your herb pots onto this tray. Fill the tray to the top with water once a week, and your herbs will absorb what they require from the bottom of the pots.

Should you start a kitchen herb garden?

The impulse to start a kitchen herb garden is typically born out of frustration. You buy the healthiest-looking basil and cilantro from the grocery store, but despite your best efforts, the fresh sprigs decompose into acrid slime before you can use them all.

How to grow herbs in your kitchen wall?

Here’s an easy and quick-to-make DIY to have a mini herb garden right on your kitchen wall. 20. Mason Jars on Wooden Boards This will work perfectly in a large kitchen where you can hang mason jars on wooden boards to grow herbs. Click here for details.

How to make a mini herb garden in your kitchen?

Here’s an easy and quick-to-make DIY to have a mini herb garden right on your kitchen wall. 20. Mason Jars on Wooden Boards This will work perfectly in a large kitchen where you can hang mason jars on wooden boards to grow herbs.

How do you keep herbs alive in the kitchen?

Minimum Temperature Needs For Your Potted Herbs Most herbs need a warmth in order to grow. Keep them in rooms that are at least 65-75°F during the day, and no less than 55-60°F at night. Even though many herbs can survive at lower temperatures, they are unlikely to produce much growth under those conditions.

How do you keep an herb garden indoors?

Indoor herbs need both high humidity and excellent air circulation. Mist your herbs once a week or set them on a tray of pebbles filled with water to keep the humidity up. If you find your herbs are affected by mildew, you may want to consider adding a fan to keep the air circulation consistent.

Can you grow herbs on your kitchen counter?

This is why many herb gardeners have decided to create their own countertop herb garden. A small herb garden grown on the kitchen counter makes it easy to add fresh herbs to your family's meals. And thanks to the easy herb kits like the one from Click and Grow or the ever-popular AeroGarden, now it's easier than ever!

How do I display herbs in my kitchen?

13 clever ways to display fresh herbs, indoors and outTransform a big, blank wall by installing a design-forward hanging planter. ... Arrange a collection of planters and herbs on floating shelves for an eclectic feel. ... Build a vertical garden with slanted shelves to allow the herbs to soak up plenty of sun.More items...•

Where can I grow herbs in my kitchen?

Choose a Location. An indoor herb garden will thrive if you can give it a sunny location (or comparable artificial light), and conditions that are coolish with slightly elevated humidity and good air circulation. The best location will offer at least six hours of sun in a west- or south-facing window.

Can I grow herbs indoors all year round?

Many cooks grow herbs indoors during the winter when it's too cold outside or too wet to dig in the dirt, but you can grow herbs inside any time of year. Indoor herbs prefer the same temperatures that most people do—around 65 to 70 degrees F—so if you're comfortable, they probably are.

What is the easiest herb to grow indoors?

The Easiest Herbs to Grow Indoors Or if you forgot to plant them, you don't need to wait until next spring. Basil, oregano, mint, chives, sage, rosemary, and thyme are the easiest herbs to grow indoors, whether you have them in the garden already or wish to plant them now.

What is the best herb to grow indoors?

The Best Herbs to Grow IndoorsBay laurel. The thick, flavorful leaves of this Mediterranean shrub are essential ingredients for soups and stews. ... Chervil. One of the four herbs used to make the traditional French fines herbes blend, chervil is an annual with an anise-parsley flavor. ... Chives. ... Mint. ... Thyme.

How can I grow herbs indoors without sunlight?

What are the ways to grow herbs indoors without sunlight? If you do not have natural sunlight available indoors, you can use grow lights, hydroponics systems, and aeroponic systems to help your herb garden receive the light it requires.

How do you display an herb garden?

Our 5 Favorite Indoor Herb Garden IdeasThe winter season most likely means your outdoor garden is past the point of no return. ... Display Them on the Window.Plant herbs in antique containers and tins, and place them on the windowsill in the kitchen. ... Hang Them on the Wall.Grow your herbs vertically. ... Keep It Compact.More items...

How do you display herbs in pots?

Herb container display – adding compost. Drill drainage holes in the base of the container, if necessary, add crocks and then fill two-thirds with compost. ... Herb container display – adding the herbs. ... Herb container display – adding gravel around the herbs. ... Herb container display – watering the herbs.

Do herbs need direct sunlight?

Grow Your Herbs on The Sunny Side They need sun - and lots of it. Most herbs require at least 6 hours of sun per day outdoors. Indoors, much less light gets in, especially in the winter. So be sure you can place your herbs in a sunny spot, preferably in a south-facing window.

How to make a herb garden in the kitchen?

A classic way to create a herb garden in your kitchen is to place compact pots on your window sills where they can get showered with natural light. You can also pop your herbs on your worktop or next to the sink for easy access when cooking. There are plenty of designs to suit your style, from minimalist to statement and colourful pots – just have your pick.

Can you control the brightness of a herb garden?

Are you a tech lover? If so, a smart herb garden is ideal! You can easily control the lamp’s brightness according to your plants and use automated watering functions from your phone. Some innovative designs have biodegradable pods that have seeds and nutrients inside, which means you can enjoy fresh, homegrown food all year round.

How to grow herbs in a container garden?

Growing any herb in a container garden means taking special care to choose and prepare the proper pot. Herbs are fast-growing and can fill a pot with roots in less than one growing season. Choose pots that can drain well. Fill your pot with a potting mix.

How to keep herbs in pots in winter?

If the indoor air is especially dry—which is often the case in regions with cold winters—set the herb pots on trays of stones. Fill the trays with water, but keep the level below the drainage holes on the pots. 2

How to have beautiful herbs on the windowsill?

Then, you can rotate a fresh herb to the window when needed, and leave its twin to go back to the optimal growing location.

How long do herbs last?

Some herbs can last for years rotating between outdoor and indoor growing locations, but with others, you will likely need to remove the plants as stems get woody and thick, replacing them with new seeds or seedlings. The organic material in potting mix (usually peat moss) breaks down after a while, which will require adding more potting mix or repotting the plants entirely.

How to keep herbs from dying back?

Not only does this keep them growing evenly, this keeps one side from dying back due to lack of light. Keep your herbs watered regularly. Do this by placing small gravel in a tray and placing your herb pots onto this tray. Fill the tray to the top ...

How to keep a pot of herbs from dripping?

Plant your herb seeds, or transplant your herb plants, and water thoroughly. Allow draining until the pot no longer drips, and place on the windowsill with a tray underneath to catch any dripping water. The Spruce / Cori Sears.

How to know if your herb garden is healthy?

Observe your herb garden closely. All plants take on a different appearance when they are under stress and need water. Know how your plants look when they are healthy, and you will notice issues before they become larger problems.

Where should I plant herbs in my apartment?

Currently, I grow my herbs in the window cage next to our air conditioner. I may have to climb over my couch and hold the window open with my head in order to water them each morning, but the payoff of thriving dill, parsley, and mint plants is worth it. If outdoors truly is a no-go, put the herbs in the brightest spot in your apartment, even if it’s inconvenient to the kitchen.

Why do you need timed light for herbs?

A timed light will provide your plants the necessary amount of light to replicate optimal growing conditions. However, as setups like these can be pricey, you might be better off buying herbs from the store during colder months if your goal in growing herbs is to save money.

What herbs grow well in drier soil?

Some herbs, like rosemary, lavender, and thyme, thrive in drier soil, whereas others, like mint, chives, and basil, prefer generous waterings. A common mistake Joey has seen with new herb growers is that they will try to grow plants with different watering needs in the same box, resulting in inconsistent growth.

Can you grow herbs online?

Also, if you want to go down the path of using one of those all-in-one herb growing systems online, be aware that many have specialized seed pod systems or other features that give you less control over what you can grow.

Can you grow herbs in a window box?

Okay: Maybe you can’t set up a window box, your apartment is too dark, or you want fresh herbs year-round. Your best option would be to get a growing setup with a timed light. For reasons mentioned above, herbs need lots of light, and during winter, even your sunniest window won’t cut it.

Can you chop herb plants?

If you want your herb plant to provide you with foliage all season long, you can’t simply chop at it whenever you want. As the plant grows gradually, so will the amount you can take from it; in other words, don’t expect a giant batch of pesto in May.

How to grow herbs in a garden?

Step 1: Pick Your Place. Before you even head to your local garden center, determine where your herbs will be planted. Use the brightest spot you can find in your kitchen, as herbs love sunshine. If your kitchen is dim, consider buying a growing lamp to provide extra 'sunlight.'. When thinking about placement, consider other factors too, ...

What herbs are good for a garden?

Here are a few of our favorites: 1 Basil: Basil is an herb garden classic, and for a good reason. Its smaller, wider shape means it works well in pots, and it's easy to pinch off leaves as you need them. But, like most herbs, basil won't last forever. Expect to get several weeks out of the herb before it starts to fade away. 2 Chives: Chives make the perfect garnish, and they're the perfect kitchen herb, too. As long as chives aren't trimmed too short, they'll continue to re-sprout. 3 Mint: Mint will fill your kitchen with a refreshing smell, and it's easy to take care of. But, low maintenance doesn't mean any maintenance—left to its own devices, mint will grow and grow, so keep it trimmed or place it in its own pot. 4 Oregano: Oregano is part of the mint family, and it grows just as well. Plant oregano and use it in one of the many cuisines where it's a featured flavor, like in Central American and Middle Eastern cooking. 5 Rosemary: Rosemary is one of those herbs that you never need that much of and end up wasting the other sprigs in those little plastic grocery store packs. Create less waste by growing rosemary yourself. It's hardy, sturdy, and can provide some height contrast next to more bushy herbs.

How much sunlight do herbs need?

Your herbs will need 4 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This is often best achieved by placing your garden near a sunny window. It can also come about with the help of some growing lights with a timer. However, there are a few shade-loving herbs you can plant in a darker space—try out lemon balm or dill.

What are some good garnishes for a kitchen?

Chives: Chives make the perfect garnish, and they're the perfect kitchen herb, too. As long as chives aren't trimmed too short, they'll continue to re-sprout. Mint: Mint will fill your kitchen with a refreshing smell, and it's easy to take care of.

What herbs grow well in pots?

Herbs that are tall and lanky, like cilantro or parsley, have a hard time growing well in small pots. It's better to use herbs that are bushy and sturdy. Here are a few of our favorites: Basil: Basil is an herb garden classic, and for a good reason.

Can you grow cilantro if you don't eat it?

There's no use growing what you won't eat. Your counter space is precious as is, so be picky about what you choose to grow. Additionally, pick herbs that you use often, but not ones that you use all the time—there's no use growing cilantro if you'll use it all each week , as the herb will never have a chance to grow back.

Can rosemary be planted in the same pot?

Moisture levels are another important consideration. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano don't mind drier soil, so don't plant them in the same pot as a moisture-loving herb like mint. Use a self-watering pot for an herb that likes consistent moisture levels. Afro Bohemian Living.

WHY GROW YOUR OWN HERBS?

Before we go any further, let's address the elephant in the room! Why the heck would you go to the trouble to grow your own herbs when you can buy them? Well, here are three reasons:

THE BEST HERBS TO GROW IN AN INDOOR GARDEN

If you're new to gardening (or herbs), you've got plenty of options! We suggest growing what your family will use and eat, but these herbs are perfect for an indoor kitchen garden:

3 CHEAP, EASY WAYS TO START A KITCHEN HERB GARDEN

The sky's the limit when it comes to gardening, but here are three of the coolest ways to grow herbs in your kitchen:

TIPS FOR HELPING THAT KITCHEN HERB GARDEN THRIVE

Okay, no matter how you choose to plant those herbs, here's what you need to know to help them grow and thrive! Try these tips:

6 WAYS TO USE YOUR FRESH HERBS

Okay, one more order of business! We saved the best for last because we're going to share six super easy and delicious way to use those fresh herbs:

TELL US HOW YOU USE FRESH HERBS

Well, there you have it, you guys! Who's down to start a herb garden now? You can do this! Think of all the ways you can use those yummy herbs.

Why is it important to use fresh herbs?

Using fresh herbs is great, because they add amazing flavor to different foods, and can help bring a dish full-circle. They also make eating at home a little more special. They can kick your meals up a notch both in taste and presentation. Plus, when you're cooking, it's fun to head over to your adorable kitchen herb garden to cut off just ...

What is the biggest mistake that herb gardeners make?

Just like all people are different, all plants are different, too. "Each herb has different needs to survive, and giving them the same treatment means that some will die and some will survive," Marina Vaamonda, home improvement expert and founder of PropertyCashin, tells Mashed.

Why do you need to prune herbs?

It also encourages faster growth. Pruning simply involves snipping off leaves and some parts of stems of your plants to help them thrive.

How much sun do herbs need?

Also keep in mind how much sun your plants should receive. "Most herbs need at least a few hours of direct sun to thrive," says Rosie Leary, a horticulturalist and botanical data specialist with Candide Gardening.

Can herbs grow outside?

All herbs do well outside if provided with proper care (sunlight, soil, watering, and fertilizer). But, some herbs do better indoors than others. "Because of the reduced light levels indoors, herbs that grow well in partial sun outdoors are the best options to grow indoors," Amy Enfield, horticulturist for Bonnie Plants tells Mashed. According to Enfield, these include chives, lemon balm, mint, Greek oregano, parsley, French tarragon, and English thyme. "These herbs will last longer and won't be as 'leggy' (or stretched)," says Enfield.

Can you overwater herbs?

In regards to watering, it's important that you don't overwater your herbs. "If your herbs have too much water, they can get white mold," Ed Wike of gardengrowguide.com tells Mashed. If you feel like you can't remember when you last watered them, use a soil moisture meter to ensure that your herbs are getting the correct amount of water.

Can you lose your herb garden if you water it?

Many herb gardeners think that if they water their herb garden and give them sun exposure, it will be enough for their garden to flourish. However, that misconception can cause you to lose your garden.

How long does it take to make a countertop herb garden?

Once you gather all the supplies listed in this post, it’ll take no more than 15 minutes to finish this DIY countertop herb garden.

Where to hang IKEA plant rails?

You can use an IKEA plant rail and hang it on the side of a kitchen countertop to grow herbs. Details are here.

Can you use food cans for herb garden?

A few food cans can be the next containers for your kitchen countertop herb garden. Ensure the spot receives partial sunlight. The tutorial is here.

Can you grow herbs on the counter?

If you’re fortunate enough to receive some sunlight from your kitchen window, you’re just one step away from growing fresh homegrown herbs on your kitchen counter. See this how-to to learn more.

Can you hang mason jars on wooden boards?

This will work perfectly in a large kitchen where you can hang mason jars on wooden boards to grow herbs. Click here for details.

Can you use grow light on a countertop?

This is a step-by-step kitchen countertop garden project; you can copy it easily. If there’s no sunlight, you can also use grow light as directed in this tutorial.

Can you grow herbs in a kitchen window?

If your countertop is small, you can also use the vertical space of your kitchen window to grow herbs. The DIY kitchen garden idea is here.