Ask:
I like using fresh herbs when I cook but I'm finding them really expensive these days. I was thinking of starting to grow my own indoor herbs (basil, cilantro, oregano, mint). Has anyone had success with this? Does it save money? Any advice?
Answer:
I have no advice but I would love to know more about this too. They are really expensive in the store.
Answer:
If you lived close to me you could both come over and help yourselves to my out-of-control mint plant. I bought it for less than $2, put it on the windowsill above my sink and now it wants to take over my kitchen. It cannot be stopped, and all I do is water it.
AND- I thought I would use it to make mint tea but have not had a chance to research yet exactly how I would do that. Meanwhile it just keeps growing...
Answer:
I bought a smallish basil plant in June, watered and fertilised it in summer, brought it inside as soon as it started to get cold and it's still going strong. Just make sure to break off any flowerheads because basil will go to seed and die - although if you live in a warm enough climate, it'll reseed itself easily. But I wanted fresh basil during the winter. Hmmm, homemade pesto!!!
This year I'm going to try parsley and rosemary.
Answer:
I tend to keep my herbs outside because they can get really out of control- mint and oregano especially. I freeze or dry during the prolific months so I have it year round. Sage, thyme, cilantro do well ifor me indoors. It is much cheaper than buying at the grocery- I can can pesto and have a season's worth for the price of one jar at he store.
You do need the right location, but they are easy to grow!!
Answer:
I have a rosemary bush...err...tree, actually, right outside my kitchen door. It does just fine in the summer and winter and is HUGE. I don't even water it! Mint is really easy to grow too, but keep it contained or it gets out of hand. Oregano, chives, parsley, thyme and sage are all regulars in my spring garden. I try to stick to things that are perennials and come back every year. I have never had good luck with basil or cilantro, indoors or out, they both die off. Anyone have any advice about either of these?
I think as long as you have a sunny window, most herbs will do well indoors. I just keep mine outdoors and freeze them for winter use.
Answer:
I've done herbs outside in the summer, but would also like to try to grow them from seed starting in the winter. I also LOVE fresh basil!
Answer:
So do you just buy the plants and water them? And they keep growing? - I sound so stupid but I have never grown anything. Do you put them in separate pots or all together in one big pot? Thanks...