Container herb garden
Many herbs are perennials, easy to grow, disease resistant, hardy, useful and inexpensive. Basil, one of the most common herbs that can be found in garden centers, is excellent for growing in pots and indoors. Water it well, but make sure the soil is well-drained. Sow seeds directly into pots. Pick leaves and use throughout its growing season. Small white flowers begin to form toward end of summer. Pinch these flowers to prolong the life of the plant and make it bushier. Harvest a mature plant and use it fresh, or dry it out to use throughout the winter. Add basil to soups, stews, sauces, salads and sandwiches. It’s especially good with tomatoes. Use it in vinegar and oils, or dry it to store in olive oil.
Chives, a member of the onion family, are perennials and easy to grow in pots. This herb likes the sun but will grow well in partial shade. Chives like rich, well-watered but well-drained soil. Divide the bulb and plant it together or separately in the fall. Cut leaves for use when needed. Chives are a popular addition to cream cheese. You can add it to salads, soups and sandwiches or use it as a garnish. Refrigerate it in sealed bags for up to seven days. You can dry or freeze chives, and they’re good for using in oils and vinegars.
Oregano, a perennial in warm climates, is a favorite in Italian cuisine. Plant it in sunny but not scorching conditions. Make the soil nutrient-rich. Divide roots and plant together or separately in autumn. Pick the leaves for use anytime. Oregano is used in pasta sauces and on pizza.
Coriander
(cilantro) is an annual that requires rich soil in the sun, or a well-lit
indoor garden. Plant seeds in the spring. Pick the leaves anytime. Pick
the seeds when they turn brown but before they drop from the plant. Coriander
is an essential part of salsa and many Mexican dishes. Its seeds and
leaves are popular ingredients in curries. Freeze the leaves or infuse
them in vinegar.
With proper lighting, an herb garden adds an accent to indoor gardens.
Many garden centers sell special “sunshine-like” lights for
indoor gardens.