Can I grow herbs year-round indoors?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Indoor herb gardening has the potential to be successful year-round following some seasonally-inspired, care-change approaches. Success with growing herbs indoors is based on mimicking some of the seasonal rhythms of plants grown outdoors. Maintain a relatively steady ambient temperature of 65-75°F using inexpensive thermostats. I regularly enjoy growing fresh basil on my windowsill, even during January blizzards. Overall, light management is crucial to prevent herbs from entering a dormant state during the winter months.
Light Management
- South-facing windows maximize winter sunlight
- LED grow lights supplement 4-6 winter hours
- Use timers for 12-hour summer cycles
- Rotate plants weekly for even exposure
Temperature Control
- Avoid placement near heating vents
- Use humidity trays during dry winters
- Insulate windows against drafts
- Monitor with digital thermometer
Seasonal Watering
- Winter: Water half as frequently
- Summer: Check soil daily
- Transition seasons: Follow standard schedules
- Use moisture meters for accuracy
Winter lighting requires some special care. You will want to supplement weak natural light by using full-spectrum LEDs six inches above the plant. My rosemary plant survived December with 14 hours of light each day. As days start to shorten, it's essential to increase daily exposure to avoid sudden changes gradually.
Temperature stability relieves stress. Keep your herbs away from cold drafts, such as windows or heating vents in winter. For example, you can close thermal curtains on cold nights, which helps maintain a consistent temperature. My basil was doing great next to an interior wall with consistent 70°F. You can also group your plants to create a microclimate.
Adjusting watering seasonally is important.During the winter dormancy period, reduce the frequency to 50%. Always check the soil's moisture level before watering. My mint needed to be watered just once a month during the dormant month of January. During the spring months, you can gradually increase the frequency at a similar pace to the increase in daytime hours.
Modifications to feeding schedules bolster natural cycles. Do not add nutrients during months of low light in the winter. Once early spring arrives, it is appropriate to resume feeding with 1/2 strength fish emulsion. In recent years, I have noticed that my oregano tastes better in the summer when I pause feeding over the winter months. Ultimately, it is critical to match nutrients with the plant's growth phases.
Choosing herb varieties makes success a lot easier year-round. For example, thyme and mint are hardy and will survive for years. My chives produced for three years without interruption. You can also rotate out plants for periods of rest. With perennial herbs in the perennial herb garden, you can continue to propagate cuttings for an endless supply.
Read the full article: 7 Essential Indoor Herb Garden Secrets
