Growing herbs in containers at home is a great way to have fresh herbs on hand for cooking and gardening. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
Container Tips:
Use containers that have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Containers should be at least 6-12 inches deep to provide ample root space for the herbs. I also like to use “pot feet” to elevate them off of the ground to be sure they drain well.
- You may also want to put large pots on a plant dolly to make them easier to move around on the deck to grab additional sunlight, or to provide shade.
- Going out of town? Purchase olla’s or plant watering globes to add to your pot.
Think outside of the box when choosing containers. With a little imagination just about anything can be used to grow herbs.
A client of mine had a sunny deck, but a shaded yard with limited space for a garden. She had been using over the deck planting boxes for flowers, but is now using those for her herbs. The had drainage holes and were 8 inches deep. Perfect for low growing herbs such as thyme, oregano, marjoram and chamomile.
Select the Right Herbs:
Choose herbs that are well-suited for container gardening and that you commonly use in your cooking. Popular choices include basil, parsley, mint, thyme, marjoram, oregano, sage, chives, and cilantro. Pair herbs with the same light and watering requirements together. For example, mints can tolerate some shade and prefer more water than marjoram, oregano and thyme.
Use Quality Soil:
Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for container gardening. Avoid using garden soil, as it can compact in containers and hinder drainage.
Provide Adequate Sunlight:
Most herbs prefer full sun, so place your containers in a sunny location where they’ll receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If you’re growing herbs indoors, place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights. Mints can tolerate less light but need 5-6 hours.
Water Wisely:
Herbs in containers may need more frequent watering than those in the ground since containers can dry out faster. Water your herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilize Regularly:
Herbs grown in containers benefit from regular fertilization to replenish nutrients. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions, usually every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. My favorite is Dr. Earth’s Tomatoes, Vegetables and Herbs
Prune Regularly:
Regular pruning helps herbs stay bushy and productive. Pinch off the tips of stems to encourage branching and harvest leaves regularly to promote new growth.
Watch for Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, as well as diseases like powdery mildew. Remove any affected leaves and dispose of. Don’t add to your compost.
Consider Companion Planting:
Some herbs, like basil and parsley, are known to repel pests or attract beneficial insects. Practice companion planting to help naturally protect your herbs from pests.
Harvest Frequently:
Harvest herbs regularly to encourage new growth and ensure the best flavor. Snip leaves or stems as needed, being careful not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.
If you want to learn more about growing in containers, this book by Sophie McKay is a great place to start. Click on the book to go to Amazon to order.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a thriving herb garden right at home, even if you have limited space.
Happy gardening!
Karen
***As an Amazon affiliate I may receive a small commission if you purchase any product while on the Amazon link.