How to feed herbs plants can be a challenge to begin with. When growing herbs indoor gardens, you are restricted in many ways. The main limiting factor is not the weather – it’s the soil. Although you want to ensure that the soil has all the necessary elements for growing herbs, sometimes this just isn’t going to be enough. I’ll share a few ideas for growing herbs plants successfully even in less than perfect soil.
Soil – One of the most important things to remember when growing herbs indoors is that you need good soil to plant your herb garden in. So let’s get into more detail about the soil and how to feed herbs plants better when growing herbs indoors. Soil preparation – this can vary depending on the type of herb you are growing. For example, if you’re growing herbs for culinary use, the soil probably needs more moisture and organic matter. On the other hand, herbs like dill, Rosemary, basil, chives and tarragon do well in dry soil. Don’t forget that these same herbs grow best with clay as well.
Water – watering is another important thing to keep in mind when growing herbs inside. I’ll start by saying that you do not want to over-water your plants. You want to keep them well watered during the summer and less water in the winter months. In fact, some of the best growing herbs do quite well in containers. If you’re just planting them from seed, they will need less water.
Soil texture – it’s also very important to keep soil texture in mind. Different types of herbs grown in different soil needs a certain amount of organic matter. Some herbs like fennel, dill, marjoram, and coriander need a lot. On the other hand, sage, basil, Rosemary and tarragon love a loamy soil. It’s best to experiment a little with the soil type you’re using.
Planting depth – this one may seem like a no-brainer but it’s something many people overlook when growing herbs. A good rule of thumb is to use the depth of your herb garden beds. If you’re just planting herbs in the center of the bed and keeping them away from the sides, then use a depth of up to 4″. However, if you want to create a layered effect, be sure to add soil at least three to four times deeper than your planting depth.
Planting spacing – keep in mind that herbs don’t like to be planted close together. They should be spread out to at least six to ten feet apart. This spacing will also help keep disease-causing organisms (such as black spot, aphids and spider mites) from flourishing in your growing herbs. Also, be sure not to plant herbs too close together as their leaves may overlap. Misting the area between your plants after planting will go a long way in preventing leaves from becoming coated with aphids.
When you’re ready to harvest your herbs, pick them while they’re still green. Cut off about a quarter inch of growth near the base of the plant. Harvest in the late afternoon, or early evening. Anytime you’re harvesting your herb, don’t pull the plant unless you’re certain that the herb has completely finished blooming. To assure yourself, clip the herb’s petals gently with your fingers.
In general, caring for your herb garden is pretty easy. Just follow these basic guidelines, which will give you an idea on how to feed herbs. And don’t forget to water your plants. Your herbs need water to grow, so water them often. And remember, the best food for your herbs is the soil they grow in!