Yorkshire Kitchen Garden

If you live in the northern hemisphere, then it is likely that your garden is
tucked up for the winter. However, this doesn't mean you can't enjoy freshly
picked herbs. Many varieties will grow quite happily indoors on a sunny
windowledge or porch. In addition to providing a source of fresh herbs, an
indoor garden can look extremely attractive, and they are a wonderful
introduction to gardening for children.

Herbs which will grow indoors:

- Basil
- Oregano
- Mint
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
- Angelica
- Chamomile
- Dill
- Fennel
- Lavender
- Geranium
- Chives

You will need to find a sunny, well lit spot to grow your indoor herb garden.
Ideally, it should be south facing, but if this isn't possible choose a situation
that will receive plenty of light through out the day. Try to avoid a north
facing place because it is unlikely the plants will receive enough light to
grow properly.

What you will need:

- Herbs, either plants or seeds
- Good quality compost
- Suitable containers

Buy your herbs from reputable suppliers, don't buy seed packets which
are out of date, and avoid any straggly or unhealthy looking plants. The
same is true for compost, choose a good all purpose compost, your
herbs will be relying on it for nutrition for some time.

The containers are easier to select. You will find a wide range at garden
centers and nurseries. Alternatively, you can use ones you already have,
or adapt other objects. I grow my geraniums in a old mop bucket, and my
lemon mint is growing in a teapot with a broken handle.

If your children are helping with your indoor garden, a nice idea is to take
some plain plant pots, and let the kids decorate them with paint, paper
etc. to produce their own unique pots.

Once you have planted your garden, it will need some care. Remember,
indoor plants rely on you totally. Water regularly, but be careful not to
over-water, this is the main cause of death for most indoor plants. No more
than once a week should be sufficient, I water once every two weeks. Check
the compost before watering, if it still feels moist wait and check again the
next day. If you have used a good compost, and your winter is relatively
short you will probably only need to feed your plants once. However, often
you need to feed your herbs, bear in mind that if you plan to eat them, it is
a good idea to use an organic plant food.

Copyright Kate Gilby All Rights Reserved