From The Ground Up: Time to grow an indoor herb garden

Now that most outside chores are done for the year, and nature is going into hibernation, many of us look for something to grow inside. We love to bring the flavors and fragrances of the garden inside by growing some herbs in the house. Often called windowsill gardens, herb gardens provide fresh herbs for cooking, and bring nature indoors to enjoy all year.

First, make sure you have adequate sunlight. If you have a window facing south that receives about 8 hours of sunlight a day, you've got a great place for the herbs. If not, a window with 6 hours or more might work, but be sure to watch if the plants get leggy or leaves fall off for no reason. If they do, more sunlight is needed. A grow light can be added without too much work, and since most of these gardens are small, quite economical.

Second, the temperature can be anywhere from about 65 degrees to 80. The ideal is 70 to 75 degrees. Herbs will tolerate a wide range, however, they grow the best when there is a distinct temperature drop at night (5-10 degrees is ideal). So, if you are on a timed temperature control with a lower temp at night, it will work perfectly.

Third, because winter's air moisture can be very low, it's best to provide additional water for the herbs. By arranging the plants close, and placing the pots in trays with pebbles and water in them, the plants will have a healthy humidity within their environment. You may be surprised how often the water needs to be replenished.

Finally, the plants can be added. Below are five herbs that are both easy to grow and useful for a first time herb gardener.

Chives: Very versatile for cooking — all that is needed is to cut them back often as they will topple over if too tall.

Thyme: A small plant with a powerhouse flavor. Used in many dishes, keep it trimmed tightly. The more you trim, the more tasty the leaves will be.

French tarragon: Great for dairy and egg dishes, it rounds out the garden as a breakfast/brunch herb. Trim as needed.

Sweet marjoram: If you love oregano, marjoram can be substituted for the same fresh taste with no chance of bitterness. Very easy to grow.

Sage: Used medicinally, as tea for colds and sore throats, it's also used for meat and poultry dishes. Wonderful versatility and fragrance.

So, if you want to bring a little nature inside for the winter, try an herb garden — I'm sure you will enjoy these growing, useful plants until it's time to take them outside next spring.

For gardening questions, call the Linn County Extension Master Gardener Hortline at (319) 447-0647.