Herb and vegetable growing is one of the most popular uses for Minigarden. In warm and hot temperatures, tomatoes, eggplants (yes, eggplants!), and strawberries sprout up in Minigardens all over the world.
For places that experience cold winters, the key to growing your own herbs and vegetables year-round is to set up an indoor garden. Since winter is the seasonal resting phase for most plants, they won’t grow as much as they would during their prime summer months. However, with some care you can still enjoy fresh sprigs of thyme, rosemary, or mint throughout the winter months.
Think Minigarden
For Minigarden Corner or Vertical owners, the self-draining design of the modules helps provide excellent drainage, which is one of the most crucial aspects of container growing. For those with a Basic system, its self-irrigating properties ensure that your herbs get just the right amount of water.
The roots draw up the water required via the most geotextile membrane, which removes all the guesswork on your side!
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips to keep in mind for growing herbs indoors all winter long:
Choose a south-facing wall or window. East-facing will also work fine, but you want to be sure that you maximize the amount of sun the plants receive. Most herbs and vegetables require lots of sun.
Purchase and plant 2” or 4” herbs instead of seeds or outdoor herbs. Many grocery chains now carry potted herbs throughout the year. I prefer to purchase potted herbs for indoor growing instead of bringing my outdoor ones in for several reasons: first, I like to let my outdoor herbs undergo their natural seasonal resting phase during the winter months, and I prefer to avoid transitioning them into indoor life. Also, any outdoor pests do not gain entry into your home. Lastly, it saves time and allows me to instantly enjoy already growing herbs.
Proper watering: The best way to ensure that you properly water your plants is to let the soil dry between waterings. If the leaves are turning yellow, chances are that the plant is over-watered.
Proper drainage: Herbs require good drainage in order to avoid fungus and rot from affecting their roots. The self-draining features of the Minigarden modules and the self-irrigating features of the Basic system, ensure that this happens.
Don’t forget to feed your plants! Over time, soil requires its nutrients to be replenished. Try this supplement to promote leafy plant growth.
What Should I Grow?
Ideal herbs for indoor growing include oregano, thyme, mint, basil, and sage. What you choose to grow depends on your own unique tastes! Don’t be afraid to try something new – it’s a great way to refresh tired recipes or introduce yourself and your family to new flavors.
Remember to savor your herbs! Clip and use them in your stews, salads, pasta sauces and mojitos and enjoy!
