Learn how to make a windowsill herb garden to always have fresh herbs available for you cooking and seasoning.
Windowsill Herb Garden for Beginners
Summer! Herbs! Gardening! What could be better than growing fresh herbs near your kitchen window or on a sunny windowsill?
Not only is it healthy to add fresh herbs to your food, these little herb pots are beautiful to look at and will brighten up any kitchen. And did we mention the sweet aroma?
Making a sauce that calls for a little fresh basil? No problem, just a little snip and you have some delicious fresh herbs all summer long without the need to step outside.
You don’t need to order fancy herb garden kits that can be expensive, just make your own by gathering a few items that are sold in most stores.
How to Make a Windowsill Herb Garden
Find a sunny window in your kitchen if possible. Any sunny window will do.
Growing a herb garden on your windowsill is a great way to enjoy fresh herbs all year round. Here are some easy steps to get you started:
Choose the right herbs – Select herbs that are suitable for growing indoors and that you commonly use in your cooking. Some popular choices for windowsill herb gardens include basil, parsley, mint, thyme, and rosemary.
Select the right containers – Use small pots or containers with good drainage to plant your herbs. Ensure they have a saucer or tray to catch excess water and prevent damage to your windowsill. You can also use recycled containers like yogurt cups or cans, as long as they have drainage holes.
Provide proper lighting – Herbs need at least six hours of sunlight per day. Place your herb garden on a windowsill that receives plenty of natural light. If your windowsill doesn’t provide enough light, consider using a grow light to supplement the sunlight.
Use quality potting soil – Fill your containers with a good quality potting mix. It should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Avoid using garden soil, as it may be too heavy and compact for potted herbs.
Plant the herbs – Follow the planting instructions for each herb, as they may have different requirements. Generally, you’ll want to sow the seeds or transplant small herb seedlings into the pots. Plant them at the appropriate depth and spacing recommended for each herb.
Water the herbs appropriately – Water your herb garden regularly, but avoid overwatering. Check the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger about an inch deep into it. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Ensure that excess water drains out of the pots to prevent root rot.
Fertilize when necessary – Herbs grown in containers may require occasional fertilization. Use a balanced organic fertilizer or a diluted liquid fertilizer according to the package instructions. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flavor.
Prune and harvest – Regularly prune your herbs to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems regularly to promote branching. Harvest your herbs when they have reached a suitable size for use in your cooking, and remember to leave some foliage on the plant for continued growth.
Enjoy your fresh herbs – Once your herbs are ready to use, enjoy them in your favorite recipes. Freshly harvested herbs can add a wonderful flavor and aroma to your dishes.
By following these easy steps, you can create a thriving herb garden on your windowsill and have a fresh supply of herbs at your fingertips. Happy gardening!
What Herbs To Grow?
Here are some of our favorite herbs to grow in the kitchen. Go with your favorite herbs that you reach for most often.
- Basil
- Chives
- Coriander
- Lavendar
- Mint
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Thyme
Where Should You Grow Your Herbs
Any window that has plenty of natural sunlight is perfect for growing herbs. Herbs grow well on a windowsill or a table pulled up close to the window.
What Do You Need To Make Your Own Herb Pots?
Grab some decorative cups from the Dollar Store and a small bag of potting soil. Purchase your herbs as small plants and plant them in the cups. Print labels so you can identify each herb. These will look beautiful on your windowsill and be within easy reach.
What’s A Favorite Herb To Grow?
That would have to be oregano. When we found out how nutritious oregano was, we started growing it with a bit of gusto!
Where to Use Freshly Grown Oregano?
We use it in everything from soups to sauces and in our fresh salads. Oregano contains contains vitamins A, C, E, and K. It also contains some iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium! So include plenty of oregano in your weekly diet.
So go create your own little fresh herb windowsill garden even if it’s small. They are beautiful to look and will remind you to add fresh herbs to your cooking.
So, this these are some simple steps on how to make a windowsill herb garden!
- Potting Soil
- Herb Plants
- Pots
You will Also Love Some of Our Other Gardening pages:
How to Grow Strawberries on Your Porch
What Vegetables to Grow in Your Fresh Salad Bowl
How to Grow Parsley at Home
Ideas for Using Fresh Garden Cucumbers
