Bringing Spring Inside the Kitchen: Herb Garden Ideas
Can you believe it’s already March? It’s that time in the northern hemisphere when everything is beginning to grow again. The crocuses and daffodils are starting to bloom, the grass is beginning to sprout and you may be dreaming of your outdoor garden. But in many areas, it’s too soon to plant outside.
Bring the Spring inside with a container window herb garden.
It’s easy to grow herbs in containers, whether you’re a novice or seasoned gardener. Just head to your local greenhouse or order a seed kit, and enjoy your harvest. If you’re stuck on how to get started, here are a few steps to bring the green inside.
Decide what type of container garden you would like and choose the best method for you.
Some people enjoy starting the plants from seed. If you look online, there are kits that are available through many outlets.
Others may want instant gratification. This is where a trip to your local greenhouse can work. Many keep herb plants in stock year-round for this very reason. And you can get expert advice on herb care.
Select your herbs. Kitchen basic herbs such as basil, sage, rosemary, and thyme do well in window gardens as they love the sun. For a fragrance, you can do lavender. The choices are up to you and your tastes!
Pick your containers.
If you have chosen to go the seed kit route, it may have containers provided. This can be helpful as they will be designed to support the seedling growth and drainage.
If you choose to buy plants, talking with a greenhouse associate may help you choose the right size container for your plant and space. Sometimes you can use unconventional “pots” as long as there is good drainage potential. Take them along with you to see if they will work.
Set in a sunny window and water to each herb’s instructions. Make sure you’ve read the watering instructions as some may need more or less water. Your plants will thrive with the attention you give them. And later, you may be able to plant them outside when the weather warms up.
Enjoy the bounty of your kitchen garden. Now you can create meals around your fresh herbs. They will be a welcome addition to salads, as a garnish for dishes or a special pesto or chimichurri recipe. Check out our dairy-free Basil and Spinach Pesto recipe below.
Basil and Spinach Pesto
From the kitchen of Healthy Decadence
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1-2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (can also use pumpkin seeds)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
1. Place all ingredients in blender or food processor and mix until desired consistency. Add more lemon juice if desired. Season to taste.
2. Serve on vegetable noodles. Also a great addition to soup!
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