Container gardening: Herbs

Or: How to have your fun and eat it, too!

“Gardening” in pots and containers allows you to grow herbs in any small but sunny place. Even if you do not have a patio, balcony or other outdoor space, containers can be set in a sunny window. South- and east-facing windows are best. Herbs can be grown in windows that receive less light, as they thrive with fewer hours of direct sun.

Choosing containers:

1. Choose pots that are big enough to accommodate your desired plants. Too small pots can restrict the root system and dry out very quickly. Pots that are too big may not be able to drain properly. Choose pots that fit well into your growing area.

2. Terracotta pots absorb a lot of moisture, so take that into account when watering. The inexpensive plastic pots work well, and may be placed in another more decorative pot for dressing up your windows or patio corners. Wooden containers are susceptible to rot, so use a plastic lining.

3. Make sure your pot has adequate drainage. Holes should be ¼ to ½ inch across..

Growing Mixture

Make sure your planting soil drains rapidly but retains enough moisture to keep the roots evenly moist. Purchase a good quality potting mixture, and make sure it says that it can be used for growing vegetables.

Sunlight

Your container garden will need at least five hours of direct sunlight each day. If you place your containers in a window, particularly a west-facing window, take into consideration the extra heat that comes through. Place herbs with similar light requirements in the same area. Herbs which tolerate full sun are basil, rosemary, and thyme. Lemon balm, tansy, oregano and parsley like partial shade. Bay, chamomile, coriander, ginger, mint and tarragon tolerate full shade.

Watering

In an exposed outdoor location, container plants loose moisture quickly. Some plants will need to be watered daily, especially during hot, dry weather. Inside plants should be monitored as well. Water should go through to the drain holes each time. But don’t overwater!

What to grow

The most common herbs to grow in pots are the culinary herbs. Herbs picked and used immediately always have a much stronger, fresher flavor than any you can buy at the supermarket!

If you enjoy several different types of cooking styles try growing groups of herbs for each style.

Consider the following:

Mexican: Chili peppers, cilantro and basil

French: Thyme, lavender and French tarragon.

European: Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme (The “Scarborough Faire” mix!)

Asian: Basils, anise, lemon grass, garlic chives, chile peppers

Middle Eastern: Mint, coriander (which is the seed from cilantro plants), chiles

Other combinations can be tried as well, such as herbs to add to your salads and barbecue sauces. Having pots of chives and cilantro close to, or on, the patio table, will encourage your family and guests to snip fresh herbs to add to their salads or baked potatoes.