With spring right around the corner, in Central Oregon that can mean sunny skies, chilly temperatures and cooking that ranges from warm soups to outdoor grilling. While the weather can be unpredictable, one thing is for sure – it’s the season to start an indoor herb garden!
Nothing says Spring like getting our hands in the dirt, planting seeds, and watching the magic happen. Indoor ‘micro gardens’ not only provide us with fresh ingredients for our favorite foods and beverages, but they brighten and enhance window and wall spaces. Whether in a small kitchen window or a wall with vertical shelving, an indoor herb garden is the easiest and most economical way to access fresh herbs.
Location, Tools, and Maintenance
When planning the details of an indoor garden, begin by picking a location where there’s plenty of direct sunlight or somewhere where an artificial light can hang effectively. Next, when deciding which herbs to plant, research to find out what each one needs to thrive. Every flower, plant, and herb is unique and has its own special needs. Lastly, the right materials are key for a successful indoor garden.
Materials
· Porous pots with drainage holes
· Proper soil
· Artificial LED lighting (if natural light is not available)
· Herb enrichment products (fertilizer, plant vitamins)
· Clipping scissors
Spring Herbs
Basil - When you think about Central Oregon Spring herbs, it’s hard to not think about basil. With so many varietals, basil adds flavor to salads, soups, sauces and more. With good soil, correct watering and plenty of light, basil will thrive indoors. Best grown in late Spring and in summer months, once your basil gets going-it’ll be hard to get it to stop!
Chives - Place your chive pot in a spot that receives at least six hours of natural light. Keep the soil moist by watering frequently and making sure there is proper drainage. Fresh chives are delicious in both hot and cold dishes and add a beautiful aesthetic to small kitchen spaces.
Rosemary – The secret to growing this unique herb indoors is to use the correct soil, a porous terracotta pot with plenty of drainage, a ton of sunlight and frequent check ins. Watering rosemary is only necessary when soil is completely dry. Rosemary adds flavors to several dishes and a delicious garnish for cocktails.
Mint – While sometimes tricky to get going, with proper set up and maintenance, mint will thrive in warm spaces. Like other herbs, mint needs proper soil and a lot of sunlight. When mint gets started, move to a bigger pot and put outside for the summer. Mint will be the most fragrant herb you have inside and is great in Spring cocktails, desserts, and hot tea.
Cilantro – Who doesn’t love fresh cilantro in the Spring? With its bright, long branches, cilantro loves sunlight and well-drained soil. It can be on the fussy side when it comes to its PH balance, and neighboring with other herbs like rosemary, however once it gets the attention it needs, it will provide a delicious addition to your favorite recipes.
Other herbs that do well in Central Oregon are oregano, parsley, and thyme. If space is limited, plant the ones you will use the most and maximize your space. Keep tools close by and remember to check moisture levels every day.
