The Birds and The Bees

Chase the winter blues away with a windowsill herb garden; they are fun, they smell good and you can cook with them.  If you can, buy the plants already started.   If due to the season you are unable to buy plants, be sure to buy extra seed, since sometimes only a fraction of them will actually flourish.  Herbs that do well indoors are mint, rosemary, chamomile, lavender, basil and oregano.

Mixing potting soil with a little sand and a small amount of lime will give your herbs the best soil conditions for growth.  Layer some gravel in the bottom for good drainage.  Most herbs require at least a moderate amount of sunlight; south facing windows are perfect for them.  Placing them near a window or skylight is ideal; especially this time of year.  You may have to supplement by using fluorescent lighting.

When your herbs receive the right amount of water, they will flourish and thrive.  While it’s important to make sure your herbs are getting enough water, over watering can also be harmful to your garden.  Keeping an eye on the moisture level of your soil will give you a good idea of how often you should water your herbs.  Typically, once every 1 to 2 weeks will be plenty.  Water just enough to keep the soil moist.  Too much water can deprive your plants of oxygen.  Yellowing of leaves is sign of over-watering.

Good luck and happy cooking....