As the weather gets colder and wetter, many people start to shift their focus from outdoor gardening towards indoor gardening. Growing herbs in autumn is an excellent way to liven up your space and provide fresh and flavorful ingredients for your meals. Trough planters are popular option for indoor herb gardening, offering ample space for planting multiple herbs. To help you get started, we have put together a list of the best herbs for growing at home in autumn, along with some tips on growing and caring for them, and advice on how to harvest your indoor herbs correctly.
5 herbs for growing indoors in autumn
1. Basil
Basil is a popular, easy-to-grow herb used in various dishes that requires plenty of sunlight and frequent watering. It thrives well in rectangular planters, provided they have good drainage.
2. Chives
Chives are a versatile herb used for garnishing, soups, and salads. This herb is relatively easy to grow indoors, especially in trough planters as they have shallow roots. Chives require moderate sunlight and moist, well-drained soil.
3. Thyme
Thyme is a flavorful herb often used in savory dishes and can withstand a variety of indoor conditions, including dry air, low light, and infrequent watering. Thyme grows well in rectangular plant pots and prefers well-draining soil.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary is another hardy herb that can withstand infrequent watering and low humidity. It is often used to flavor meats and vegetables and has a fragrant aroma. Rosemary grows well in oblong planters and prefers moderate sunlight.
5. Parsley
Parsley is a biennial herb commonly used in soups, sauces, and salads. It can be slow to germinate, but once it does, it grows quickly. Parsley thrives in moderate sunlight and damp soil, making it an excellent choice for trough planters.
Tips for growing herbs at home in autumn and winter
1. Watering
During the autumn and winter months, indoor air can be dry, which can cause your herbs to dry out quickly. Water your herbs regularly but not too much, as over- watering can cause root rot. Always check the moisture level of the soil by inserting your finger into the soil and watering only when it feels dry to the touch.
2. Lighting
In the UK, natural sunlight can be scarce during the autumn and winter seasons, so it is crucial to provide your herbs with sufficient light. Place them in a spot that gets plenty of natural light, or consider using artificial grow lights to supplement natural light.
3. Temperature
Make sure to keep your indoor herbs in a room with a consistent temperature between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing them near windows with drafts, air conditioning units, or heating vents, as sudden changes in temperature can harm your herbs.
4. Fertilizer
Indoor herbs can benefit from occasional fertilization during the autumn and winter months. Choose a balanced fertilizer and feed your herbs every two to three weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Harvesting indoor herbs
It is crucial to harvest your indoor herbs correctly to encourage growth and enhance the flavor of the plant. Harvesting your herbs can involve trimming the leaves, picking, or snipping stem tips. You can harvest herbs anytime, but the best time is in the morning when the essential oils have built up overnight. To avoid over- harvesting, remove only one-third of the plant foliage.
In conclusion, growing herbs indoors in autumn can be an enjoyable experience that provides fresh ingredients all year round while providing a natural air filter in your living space. By selecting the right herbs and providing sufficient light, watering, and fertilizer, you can have a bountiful supply of fresh herbs throughout the year. Always remember to harvest your indoor herbs correctly to encourage growth and flavor.
