How To Plant An Herb Garden In Window Box
You’re out on your balcony, enjoying a warm spring day when you see your neighbor down the street planting an herb garden in her window box. You can’t help but wonder if it would be possible to do the same thing with your limited space. The answer is yes. It is possible to plant an herb garden in a window box, and this article will show you how.
How do you plant an herb garden In a window box? To plant an herb garden in a window box, fill the bottom of the planter with a layer of wet sand. Next, add a thin layer of soil on top of the sand. Make sure to choose a potting mix that is specifically for herbs (in a pinch, try a cactus or succulent soil mix). Gently remove the herbs from their current containers and plant them in the soil, making sure to bury them up to the surface of the soil from their original pot. Finally, water the herbs well and place them in a sunny spot.
Window box herb gardens are the perfect way to garden if you're short on space. In just a few easy steps, you can have an herb garden that will be beautiful and provide you with fresh herbs all summer long.
By reading on, you'll learn the specific steps to take in order to plant an herb garden in a window box, what plants work best for this type of garden, and how to care for your herbs.
What Herbs To Grow In A Window Box?
There are a few things to consider when choosing which herbs to grow in your window box.
First, think about which herbs you use most often in cooking. These are the herbs that will be most convenient for you to have on hand.
Second, consider the amount of sun and shade that your balcony gets throughout the day. Herbs like basil and oregano need full sun, while mint and chives can tolerate some shade.
Finally, make sure to choose herbs that will do well in small spaces.
Some good options include:
thyme
rosemary
sage
parsley
What To Consider When Planting An Herb Garden In a Window Box
Herbs are a great way to add flavor and fragrance to your home, and they can also be used to make natural remedies. Here are some tips on how to plant an herb garden in a window box.
Plan Where To Place Your Herb Garden
When choosing a spot for your herb garden, make sure to consider the amount of sunlight it will get. Herbs like basil and oregano need full sun, while mint and chives can tolerate some shade. If you don't have a lot of sunlight near your windowsill, try growing herbs that can tolerate partial shade.
Another thing to consider is the size of your window box. Make sure to choose herbs that will fit comfortably in the space.
Finally, make sure to place your herb garden in a spot where you can easily access it. You'll need to water and harvest your herbs regularly.
How to Determine the Dimensions of the Herb Garden In Window Box
To determine the dimensions of the herb garden window box, you first need to know the size of the window box. Once you have that measurement, you can use it to calculate the size of the herb garden.
Window boxes come in a variety of sizes, so you may need to do a little measuring to find the right one for your space.
If you already have a window box, measure its length, width, and depth.
If you're planning to buy a new window box, choose one that is at least as long as your windowsill and at least 12 inches wide. The depth isn't as important, but try to choose a window box that is at least 6 inches deep.
How many herbs can be grown in a window box?
You can grow anywhere from 4 to 6 herbs in a standard-sized window box. If you have a larger window box, you can grow more herbs. Just make sure to choose herbs that will fit comfortably in the space.
Consider The Weight of The Window Box
One thing to consider when planting an herb garden in a window box is the weight of the box. If you live in a windy area, make sure to choose a window box that is weighted down or has anchors to keep it from blowing away.
Another option is to use a lightweight material like plastic for your window box. This will help to keep it from being too heavy for your windowsill and make it easier to move around.
Watering Schedule for an Herb Garden In Window Box
Herbs need to be watered regularly to stay healthy. Depending on the type of herbs you're growing, you will need to water them every 1-2 days.
To water your herbs, use a watering can or a hose with a spray nozzle. Make sure to water the soil, not the leaves of the herbs.
If your herb garden is indoors, you will need to water it more often than if it is outdoors. Herbs need at least 1 inch of water per week, and more if the plants are in direct sunlight. You can water them by hand or with a watering can.
Harvesting Your Herb Garden
You can start harvesting your herbs once they reach 6 inches tall. To harvest, cut the herb stems about an inch above the soil.
You can also dry or freeze your herbs for later use. To dry herbs, tie them together in bunches and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place. To freeze herbs, wash and chop them, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Now that you know how to plant an herb garden in a window box, you can start adding flavor and fragrance to your home. Herbs are a great way to add some extra flavor to your cooking, and they can also be used to make natural remedies.
What Else Should I Consider When Planting An Herb Garden In Window Box?
When it comes to planting an herb garden, there are many things to consider. But, with a little planning and care, you can grow a healthy and flavorful herb garden that will add some extra zest to your cooking.
"Grow Where You Are Planted"
If you use herbs frequently in your cooking, then it's a good idea to plant those herbs in your herb garden. Herbs that are used often in the kitchen include basil, oregano, mint, and thyme.
Herbs will typically take about 2-3 weeks to grow in a window box. So, if you are looking to grow your favorite herbs sooner, you can buy pre-packaged herbs from your local grocery store or garden center and plant them.
Another thing you should consider is whether the herbs you grow will thrive in your environment.
If you are unsure, you can check with your local nursery or garden center. They can tell you which herbs grow well in your area and provide tips on how to care for them.
Herbs That May Require Special Care
Some herbs may require special attention. Mint, for example, can become invasive if not cared for properly.
To prevent your mint from taking over your herb garden, you can plant it in a container or in a section of the garden that is specifically designated for mint.
You can also prune mint regularly to keep it under control. Other herbs that may require special care include lavender and sage.
Potting Soil To Use In Window Box Herb Gardens
When it comes to potting soil, you want to choose soil that is light and well-draining.
A potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite will help to improve drainage and prevent the roots of your herbs from becoming waterlogged.
You can find potting mixes specifically formulated for herb gardens at your local garden center or nursery.
Pots and Containers For Herb Gardens In Window Box
The type of pot or container you use for your herb garden will depend on the size and number of herbs you are growing.
If you are only growing a few herbs, then you can use small pots or containers. But, if you are planning on growing a larger herb garden, then you will need to use a larger pot or container.
When choosing a pot or container for your herb garden, make sure it has drainage holes in the bottom to allow water to drain out.
If you are using a pot that doesn't have drainage holes, then you will need to drill some holes in the bottom before planting your herbs.
Gardening Tools You'll Need for Herb Garden In Window Box
The gardening tools you'll need for your herb garden will depend on the size and number of herbs you are growing.
If you are only growing a few herbs, then you won't need many gardening tools. But, if you are growing a larger herb garden, then you will need more gardening tools to help with planting and watering.
Here are just a few go-to gardening tools to have:
Garden gloves
Shears
Small gardening spade
Water Can
The Best Herb Garden In Window Box Ideas
Now that you know how to plant an herb garden in a window box, here are some ideas to get you started:
Use different colored pots or containers: This will add some visual interest to your herb garden.
Plant herbs that have different growing requirements: This will give you a challenge and help you learn more about herb gardening.
Get creative with your herb garden design: There are no rules when it comes to designing your herb garden. So, get creative and have fun with it!
Plant a variety of herbs: Not only will this make your herb garden more enjoyable, but it will also give you a wider range of herbs to use in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Window box herb gardens are a great way to enjoy herbs right outside your kitchen. They are easy to plant and care for, and you can grow a variety of herbs in them. When choosing a pot or container for your herb garden, make sure it has drainage holes in the bottom to allow water to drain out.
If you are using a pot that doesn't have drainage holes, then you will need to drill some holes in the bottom before planting your herbs. The best way to water your herb garden is to use a watering can with a long spout so you can direct the water right to the roots of the plants.
And be sure to fertilize your herb garden regularly to keep the plants healthy and vigorous. With a little care and attention, your window box herb garden will thrive.
If you’re looking to get into herb gardening check out our garden mentorship program for more information on how to get started! Our expert Kellan MacKay will help you get your herb garden up and running in no time.
Herb Garden In Window Box Related Questions
How many plants should I put in a window box?
It depends on the size of your window box and the size of the plants. But, as a general rule of thumb, you should only put 3-5 plants in a window box.
Can you grow rosemary in a window box?
Yes, rosemary is a great herb to grow in a window box. It's easy to care for and doesn't require much space. Plus, it looks great and can add a nice scent to your home.
How often do I water my herbs in a window box?
It depends on the weather and the size of your plants. But, as a general rule, you should water your herbs 2-3 times per week. However, depending on the type of herb, some may need more or less water. For example, Basil is a Herb that requires a lot of water, so you would need to water it more often than other herbs.
Which herbs should not be planted together in a window box?
There are a few herbs that shouldn't be planted together. For example, basil and oregano should not be planted together because they will compete for nutrients. Also, rosemary and sage should not be planted together because they will inhibit each other's growth.