Best Indoor Herb Garden

Even though it is an absolute heat wave in our area and the icy cold winter seems far in the distance, it is never to early to get started thinking how to have fresh herbs once our weather turns cold and the ground freezes. Send in the Indoor Herd Garden! Whether creating one for the first time, adding new seeds to your existing garden pots or even buying a indoor herb garden kit, the best indoor herb garden is the one which brings joy to your day and your window sill.

Creating an indoor herb garden is a wonderful way to have fresh and flavorful herbs at your fingertips year-round. Here’s a list of items you’ll need to buy to set up a successful indoor herb garden:

1. Herb Plants or Seeds: Decide whether you want to start with established herb plants or grow your herbs from seeds. Common herbs for indoor gardening include basil, mint, parsley, cilantro, thyme, rosemary, and chives. I use SeedsNow.com.

2. Pots or Planters: Choose pots or planters that are appropriate for the size of the herb plants you’re growing. Make sure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. You can opt for individual pots or a larger container with multiple compartments.

3. Potting Mix: Select a high-quality potting mix specifically designed for indoor plants or herbs. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too dense and may not provide adequate drainage.

4. Saucers or Trays: Place saucers or trays under your pots to catch excess water and prevent it from damaging your indoor surfaces.

5. Grow Lights (Optional): If your indoor space doesn’t receive sufficient natural sunlight, consider investing in grow lights. These lights provide the necessary spectrum of light for healthy herb growth.

6. Watering Can or Sprayer: A small watering can or spray bottle will help you provide the right amount of water to your herbs without overwatering.

7. Pruning Shears or Scissors: Pruning shears or scissors are essential for harvesting your herbs and maintaining their growth. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and prevents plants from becoming leggy.

8. Fertilizer: Herbs benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer designed for indoor plants.

9. Plant Labels: Use plant labels to keep track of which herb is planted in each pot. This is especially helpful if you’re growing multiple herbs.

10. Drainage Material (Optional): Consider adding a layer of small rocks or gravel at the bottom of your pots before adding potting mix. This can improve drainage and prevent the roots from sitting in excess water.

11. Humidity Tray (Optional): Some herbs prefer higher humidity levels. Placing a tray filled with water and pebbles near your herb garden can help increase humidity around the plants.

12. Windowsill or Indoor Location: Choose a sunny windowsill or a location in your home that receives adequate sunlight for your herbs to thrive. South or west-facing windows are usually best.

13. Plant Stands or Shelves (Optional): If you’re growing multiple herbs, consider using a plant stand or shelving unit to maximize space and provide each herb with the right amount of light.

14. Thermometer and Hygrometer (Optional): Monitoring the temperature and humidity levels in your indoor garden can help ensure the best growing conditions for your herbs.

15. Gardening Gloves (Optional): If you prefer to keep your hands clean while tending to your indoor garden, gardening gloves can be a helpful addition.

By gathering these essential items, you’ll be well-equipped to start and maintain a thriving indoor herb garden that provides you with a continuous supply of fresh, aromatic herbs for cooking, garnishing, and enhancing your culinary creations.