If you are an avid gardener who is living in an urban area, then you probably know how challenging it can be to grow plants in small spaces. However, this does not mean that you have to give up on gardening altogether, especially if you love growing herbs for cooking or medicinal purposes. One of the best solutions for urban gardening is an indoor vertical herb garden. This article will explore the benefits of having an indoor vertical herb garden and how you can make one for yourself.
Here are some of the benefits of having an indoor vertical herb garden:
One of the biggest challenges of urban gardening is space. With an indoor vertical herb garden, you can maximize your space by growing herbs vertically, saving you space and allowing you to grow more herbs in a small space. You can easily mount the garden on a wall or place it in a corner of your house.
With an indoor vertical herb garden, you can have a constant supply of fresh herbs. You can have your favorite herbs at your fingertips without having to worry about running out of them or spending money to buy them from a grocery store. You can also grow herbs that are not readily available in your local market.
Having an indoor vertical herb garden can also save you money in the long run. Once you have set up your garden, you will not have to spend money buying fresh herbs. You can also sell your excess herbs to your friends, family, or neighbors, earning some extra cash.
An indoor vertical herb garden can add aesthetic value to your house. It can serve as a beautiful decoration piece that can enhance the overall look of your house. The garden can also improve the air quality of your house, making it a healthier place to live in.
Here are some steps to follow when making an indoor vertical herb garden:
Choose the herbs you want to grow based on your personal preferences and the climatic conditions in your area. Some of the best herbs for indoor vertical gardens include basil, mint, parsley, oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary, and cilantro.
Choose a container that has enough space to accommodate your herbs. You can use anything from plastic bottles, mason jars, hanging baskets, or a DIY pallet garden. Ensure that the container has adequate drainage and is light enough to be mounted on a wall.
Choose a location that has adequate natural light, preferably a south-facing window. The herbs need at least six hours of sunlight daily to thrive. You can also use LED grow lights if you do not have access to natural light.
Choose a soil that is rich in organic matter and has good drainage. It should also have the right pH balance for the herbs you are growing. You can mix organic matter like compost, peat moss, and vermiculite to make your soil.
Plant the herbs in the chosen container, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. Use a nutrient-rich soil to plant them and water them regularly to keep the soil moist.
Maintain your indoor vertical herb garden by watering them regularly, pruning the herbs, and using organic pest control methods. You can also use organic fertilizer to nourish your herbs and encourage their growth.
A: It depends on the size of your garden, the herbs you are growing, and climatic conditions. However, you should expect to spend at least 30 minutes a week maintaining your garden.
A: You can check the soil moisture with a moisture meter or by touching the soil with your finger. If the soil feels dry, water the herbs. If it feels moist, wait for a day or two before watering.
A: Yes, you can use LED grow lights to grow herbs in your indoor vertical herb garden. Ensure that the lights are placed at a height and angle that mimics natural light.
A: Yes, you can grow vegetables like cherry tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, and small peppers in your indoor vertical herb garden. However, you will need to ensure that they have enough space and natural light to grow properly.
A: You can prevent pests by regularly inspecting your herbs, using organic pest control methods, and keeping your indoor garden clean and well-maintained.
Indoor vertical herb gardens are an excellent solution for urban gardening, allowing you to grow fresh herbs in small spaces. It can save you money, provide aesthetic value, and ensure a constant supply of fresh herbs. With a little effort and the right materials, you can create an indoor vertical herb garden that will be a joy to maintain and harvest.