Starting an indoor garden can be a simple and rewarding first step to creating your own homestead. Even those without a green thumb or busy people like myself can do it! Here’s some helpful tips to help get you started.
First – do some research on which herbs you’d like to plant. When mixing plants in a single pot make sure they have similar growing requirements, basil, green onion and dill would be great roommates to start off with as they all need a good amount of sun and moisture.
Environment – All you need to start is a bright sunny windowsill. You can also use fluorescent lights too.
Soil – You’ll want to get a light organic potting soil mix that drains well.
Watering – Herb plants should be watered sparingly. Use your finger to check the soil’s moisture levels. Wait to water until it’s dry about an inch or two below the surface. If the top inch of soil is still damp then do not water them. You’ll know you’ve watered them enough if the water runs out of the drainage hole and all the roots have been hit.
Protection – sprinkle a little of Diatomaceous earth (fossilized algae that kills insects but doesn’t harm mammals) if you notice your plants are being eaten. Be sure to rinse them well before consumption.
Harvesting – To encourage the plants to grow full and bushy we suggest snipping the plants early and often. Never trim more than ⅓ of the plant’s foliage at one time as you can stress the plant out if you prune too much. When your plants have reached at least 6 inches tall it’s time to harvest them. Basil – You want to cut a little above the place where the stems meet.
Remember – some herbs can be toxic to pets so please be sure to do your research thoroughly to protect all members of your home.
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