No Need to Stop Gardening Just Because it is Autumn!
Sure, it’s autumn. And we all know what comes next … the long, gray and dreary days of winter on the beach. But, hey! You are a smart gardener …RIGHT? Are you just going to give in without a winter gardening plan? Of course, you’re not! Coastal gardeners are adaptors!
You can still do gardening indoors and I’m not just talking houseplants here …
Nope, let’s build an active indoor garden, grow herbs for better winter meals and gardening fun!
Perhaps you didn’t think about growing herbs inside. You can! Some of the simplest ones are parsley, chives, basil, oregano, and thyme. But you can bring in rosemary, mint, or just about any herb, as long as you have a little room and can meet its growing needs.
Pots: Many herbs look good with terra cotta but plastic, metal, or ceramic work also. Check out all the cute pot sets but be sure to choose the right size. Most herbs will be happy in a 4” pot for the winter. But keep an eye on them and consider transplanting if you see roots growing out of the drain holes.
Drainage: No herb likes wet feet … always use a pot with a drain hole.
Soil: A good potting soil is fine. Be sure it is “potting soil” not “topsoil.” Potting soil is lighter and supplies better drainage for a containerized plant. Pumice, sand, and perlite can be used to lighten heavier potting soils, too. Remember, herbs don’t like wet feet!
Light: Herbs love light! Try growing them in a south or southwest facing window. Long nodes between leaves means your herb plant needs more light. If your window isn’t doing the trick, check into grow lights. Herbs aren’t picky on the type of light used; they just want a lot of it!
Temperature: Herbs like to be warm, just like when they’re outside. Temps above 60 will make them happy and encourage growth.
Water: Most herbs come from arid parts of the world, so water sparingly. If the leaves droop, that’s your sign to water more frequently.
Soon you’ll see new growth. Clip lightly and enjoy in your winter meals. You’ll think it’s summer again.
Bon Appétit!
