Growing plants and especially medicinal herbs is fulfilling and beneficial for our mind, body and above all, for our soul. In the previous post we discussed a lot about different types of medicinal herbs. In this post, we have some simple tips to start, care and maintain your little pots full of herbs. Let’s begin.
- Soil
The first and foremost requirement to grow any plant is soil or substrate in which the herbs are going to grow. Most of the herbs require soil which is well drained and have a good water holding capacity. You can combine your local garden soil with cocopeat or perlite with some organic manures or FYM to make it perfectly suitable for the herbs. The pH of the soil should be maintained between 6 to 7.5 as highly acidic or highly basic soil can be problematic.
- Container or Pots
Since we are growing these herbs in pots, this is the most crucial part. Pots of diameter between 8 to 12 inches work very well. Make sure that the containers have drainage holes in them in order to avoid water logging. Plastic or ceramic pots are best as metal pots can get heated in sun.
- Location
Most of the herbs flourish well in full sun. So keep them in an area where they are exposed to light for at least 6 to 8 hours. If you feel like that the temperature outside is getting too high or too low, you can obviously shift them to a place or indoors where temperature fluctuations are less.
- Water
Well, if you are growing plants, then you need to water them. Pot herbs need constant watering as moisture should be maintained adequately. Water them regularly everyday or every alternate day and don’t let the soil go dry.
- Harvesting
So now it’s time to harvest the fruits of your labour, in this case leaves! Herbs regrow and regenerate for many weeks, so cut the leaves or required part with sharp and clean scissors. Wash the harvested leaves and consume them as you like!
- Fertilization
Pot herbs do not need much fertilizer inputs. They flourish well with our old school organic manures, vermicompost or FYM. Still if you feel like the leaves are turning yellow or plant is growing slowly, you can supplement it with NPK and some micronutrient solutions. (I would highly recommend that you click here and buy our ebook “Finding Your Soil-Mate” for better and deeper understanding for how soil and manures work.)
- Pruning
Since we are planting these herbs in pots, we don’t want them to outgrow their containers. So, it is better to prune those excess branches or leaves and utilize them by drying or consuming directly.
Start your container herb garden today as you don’t need to wait for any particular season or time of the year. Herbs can be grown with seeds or through cuttings. You can grow multiple herbs in a large container too or you can pick small containers for separately planting those herbs too. Make a list of all your requirements and grow your own fresh herbs in the comfort of your home.
Happy Herb Gardening!!!
Written by
Antra Thada
If you’re looking to learn Container/Pot Gardening check out our balcony gardening course here!
Reema's Garden 