Living in an urban area can have many advantages, but one major downside can be the lack of outdoor space. For many city dwellers, particularly apartment dwellers, having a garden seems unattainable. Not so! With indoor herb and vegetable gardening, it is possible to grow fresh produce and herbs in your own home in smaller spaces with some effort and attention. Here we will explore the benefits of indoor herb and vegetable gardening, as well as tips and tricks for getting started in any living situation. Visit Edible Gardens for more information about growing your own food
Benefits of Indoor Herb and Vegetable Gardening
| Fresh Organic Produce | One of the biggest benefits of indoor herb and vegetable gardening is the ability to grow your own fresh, organic produce. When you grow your own herbs and vegetables, you have complete control over what goes into the soil and what kind of fertilisers and pesticides are used (if any). This means that you can ensure that your produce is free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, and that it is as fresh and healthy as possible. |
| Space Saving | Another benefit of indoor herb and vegetable gardening is that it takes up very little space. Even if you live in a small apartment or studio, you can still grow your own herbs and vegetables with a small amount of space. You can use windowsills, shelves, and even walls to create vertical gardens that take up very little space. |
| Cost-Effective | Growing your own herbs and vegetables indoors can also be a cost-effective way to get fresh produce. While there is an initial investment in supplies and equipment, the ongoing costs of maintaining an indoor garden are relatively low. You can save money on groceries and reduce your carbon footprint by growing your own produce |
| Space-saving | Vertical gardens are ideal for those who live in apartments or have limited outdoor space. They allow you to grow plants upwards, rather than outwards, making the most of the available space. |
| Aesthetics | Indoor gardens can add a beautiful touch to any outdoor or indoor space. if you decide to have an indoor vertical garden they can also act as a feature to any balcony or indoor space. They can be designed in various shapes and colors, creating a stunning focal point and adding a natural touch to your environment. |
| Improved air quality | Plants are natural air purifiers, and having an indoor garden can help improve the air quality in your home or office. This is especially important for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems. |
| Sustainable gardening | If you decide to have a vertical indoor garden, you will find they require less water because the plants grow upwards, they take up less space, reducing the need for pesticides and fertilisers which makes them a great way to grow plants in an eco-friendly way. |
Getting Started with Indoor Herb and Vegetable Gardening
Step 1 – Choose Your Plants
The first step in starting an indoor herb and vegetable garden is to choose the plants you want to grow. Some good options for indoor gardening include herbs like basil, thyme, parsley, and cilantro, as well as vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce. Choose plants that are suited to indoor growing conditions and that you will actually use in your cooking. See our Indoor Garden planner to help you determine which plants are best suited to your indoor environment.
Step 2 – Find the right location
Once you have chosen your plants, you need to find the right location for your indoor garden. Look for a spot in your home that gets plenty of natural light, such as a south-facing window. You can also use grow lights if natural light is limited. Avoid placing your plants near cold drafts or heating vents, as this can cause an artificial sub climate that can damage them.
Step 3 – Choose the right pots for your plants
When it comes to indoor gardening, choosing the right pots is crucial. You need to choose pots that are the right size for your plants and that provide adequate drainage. The amount of moisture can be controlled by the pot type. Clay pots dry out faster than ceramic pots that will hold in water for longer. If you have a drier environment, use ceramic pots instead of clay or more porous types of pots. Also, its important that the pot you use is slightly larger than your plants and has drainage holes to allow excess water to move out of the potting soil. If you are growing large plants like tomatoes a deeper pot is required. Smaller plants such as herbs can grow easily in shallow pots.
Step 4 – Choose the right soil
Choosing the right soil is also important for indoor gardening. Look for a high-quality potting mix that is specifically designed for indoor plants. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too heavy and can contain pests and diseases.
Step 5 – Water and Fertilise
Once planted, it is important to water and fertilise your plants regularly. Be careful not to overwater your plants, as this can lead to root rot. Instead, water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use a high-quality liquid fertiliser to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.
Step 6 – Support your plants to grow
Some plants, like tomatoes and peppers, will need support as they grow. Use stakes or cages to support these plants and prevent them from toppling over.
Step 7 – Harvest and Enjoy
As your plants grow, you can begin to harvest and enjoy the benefits of fresh herbs and vegetables at home.