There are many ways to enjoy the flavor of fresh herbs, but most people prefer to grow them in pots. The best way to learn about growing herbs in pots for beginners is by having a look at some container gardening books. A little bit of reading and experimenting will help you find out what works best for your garden.
Herb gardens don’t have to be complicated, they can be as simple as a square foot or two inside a window. The most important thing is to provide a good growing environment. Since container gardening involves growing plants closer to one another than they would be in natural soil, it’s essential that the plants are kept moist and cool. If the soil is too wet, the roots will quickly drown, and if it’s too dry, the plant will not get the vitamins and minerals it needs to grow. Watering is often difficult, especially during the hotter months, so it’s a good idea to use a watering plan to ensure proper amounts are provided for each plant.
Some container gardening herbs will actually come with a small packet with instructions on how to plant them and get the best yield. Other herbs may require more work, such as those that have a lot of woody roots. Some herbs will even grow better in containers than they do in the ground. Experiment a bit with different kinds of soil to see which ones your particular plant likes. It might take a little trial and error to determine what kind of herbs will thrive best in your climate and location. If you’re just starting out, keep in mind that the smallest plant wins.
Plants that are too tall or bulky for pots won’t get a chance to grow, no matter how hard you try. Try to avoid planting herbs that will need to sit on the ground, such as oregano, because they will just take up valuable space. Keep an eye out for growing herbs that will be invasive in your location. These include basil, chives, and scented geraniums. You may also want to consider a container that is slightly larger than your herb container garden’s expected size.
As far as growing herbs in pots for beginners goes, the amount of light they require will vary depending on the type of herb you are growing. Mint and basil will need less light than other plants, while Rosemary will need more. Keep this in mind when planning your container garden’s layout. Keep in mind that mint will love full sunlight but shaded areas will prevent this plant from thriving. You also want to place your pot’s at the right height, as too low of a pot will result in water sitting on the soil for a long period of time.
When choosing which pots to use for growing herbs in pots for beginners, you also have a choice to make between plastic and clay. Plastic pots are inexpensive, but you must keep in mind that they will break more easily. Clay pots are durable but not as strong as plastic. They are, however, often used for growing herbs indoors instead of outdoors because of their resistance to insects. If you do decide to use a clay pot, you will need to frequently re-pot your plants to ensure they get the proper amount of moisture.
Your final decision should be whether to purchase or make your own potting soil. Herbs grow best in rich organic soil with plenty of drainage. This is why it is important to choose a potting soil recipe that compliments your plants. Some people opt for natural compost to ensure their soil is chemical free. Others simply use coarse sand or perlite. No matter what you choose to use as potting soil, make sure it gets enough water to help your plant grow.
In addition to growing herbs in pots for beginners, you will also need to select seeds and starters to plant. Seeds can be purchased at most garden centers or online. These seeds will help ensure your plants’ survival during the first year. You may also want to consider starter plants such as herbs, veggies, and flowers to give your garden a nice boost.