Grow Herbs Indoors

Herbs are versatile and useful plants that are prized for their flavor, fragrance, and medicinal properties. Historically, they have been used for all of the above, and also for magic and charms. They are rich in history and myth, and make an engrossing hobby.

Whether it was to flavor food, to conceal the odors of living in a confined space, or to keep delicate plants alive in hostile climates, the practice of keeping a few precious pots in a sunny window is a time honored one. Many herbs thrive indoors year round and have very few requirements. Keeping them close can be fun and very useful. Try growing the following herbs indoors in standard potting soil and see how nice it can be to have fresh herbs nearby when you need them:

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a sun loving plant that requires little water. If brought in during the winter months, it will do well if kept in good light and watered every couple of weeks. Slice a leaf of aloe vera to expose the pulp and place it on burns for instant relief. This is a plant that no household should be without.

Chives

Chives can thrive in your home if kept in good indirect light. They need to be watered regularly, so keep the watering can handy. Snip them with scissors to sprinkle on vegetables and meat for a mild onion flavor. They can be used as a substitute for green onions, and are great on pizza.

Bay Laurel

In nature, bay laurel is a tree, but it will stay small if potted and kept indoors. Provide good light, and make sure it never dries out. Bay leaf is a staple for most cooks, and the leaves from your plant should be dried for a couple of days before using.

Catnip

When you are thinking about herb plants for your home, don’t forget the cat. Many cats love catnip, and it will grow easily if kept moist and out of harsh sunlight. Be sure to keep it up high because your cats won’t be able to leave it alone.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a slow grower that doesn’t like to be repotted. For this herb, adopt a strategy of less is more. Make sure it has good light and is watered once a week. Try putting some ground eggshell in the pot from time to time. Rosemary is great with strongly flavored meats, and makes a wonderful aromatic when grilling or smoking.

Note: Tie a few tablespoons of rosemary in cheesecloth and use in your bath to help relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. The aromatic steam will work as a nasal decongestant while the oil released from the leaves will helps relax your muscles.

Lavender

French lavender is easy to cultivate indoors in a sunny window. Add lime to standard potting mix as a growth medium, and make sure to leave plenty of room for air circulation around the plant. Lavender likes to dry out a little between waterings.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has a lemony fragrance and should be kept in good light with regular watering. Crush it as an instant air freshener, or use it to infuse vodka, vinegar, or oil.

Try growing herbs indoors this fall. Fresh herbs will add beauty to your home, zest to your table and the fragrances of the outdoors to remind you that spring is just around the corner.