Going for Winter Green

Such a winter we're having! With still a long road to spring, the perfect antidote is growing herbs indoors.

© All articles are copyrighted by High Country Gardens. Republication is prohibited without Permission.

Such a winter we’re having! With still a long road to spring, the perfect antidote is growing herbs indoors such as

  • rosemary
  • sage
  • winter savory
  • marjoram
  • mint
  • oregano
  • parsley
  • chives

Some herbs can be tricky and our herb lady Mary Heacox says, “Many herbs come from the Mediterranean area and have certain growing requirements, like rosemary. It needs at least a half day of full sun and don’t over-water it. But one dry spell can kill it.”

Other tips:

  • For plants that spread by underground stems, like the mints and ginger, wide, shallow pots are ideal. Deep-pot bay and parsley for their long taproots.
  • Let bay, marjoram, oregano, sage and thyme dry out between waterings.
  • If pests appear, mix 2 tablespoons flaked soap (Ivory is good) and one gallon warm water. Spray weekly.

“If you put containers in the window, feel for drafts,” said Heacox. “If cold air is seeping in, line the sill with a towel.”

Some hints:

  1. if a plant gets spindly, it’s not getting enough light
  2. if leaves turn yellow, it’s getting too much water
  3. fertilize once a month with seaweed or fish emulsion at half-strength
  4. use room temperature water to reduce shock

Heacox’s favorite herb is lemon thyme. “It has a good full flavor and you can put it on salads or use in a stir fry. Bake it on salmon then add some fresh leaves before eating it. It’s real yummy,” she said.

Yes, the snow is great. But to push spring a bit, there’s nothing like fresh herbs growing in the window. And kids love these miniature gardens.

After your indoor herbs get big and healthy this winter, you can plant them in the garden once it warms up. But be sure to put mints in pots, else they’ll take over your garden.

Have fun snipping fresh leaves!

Does your recipe call for fresh oregano? Ah, there’s nothing like snipping some right out of your kitchen window. Need some chives in your scrambled eggs? They’re right there. Especially during the winter, indoor herb gardens prove a delight—we get fresh greens as well as that satisfaction of watching plants grow.