What to do with Winter Herbs

To survive winter, herb garden plants do not necessarily have to be pulled out. They can be grown in containers that can easily be reached from the house. The milder microclimate will make herbs grown close to the house more tolerant and require less water than plants far away. These tips will help you keep your plants strong and healthy during winter.

For perennial herbs, protecting them from frost or waterlogging is vital. Some perennial herbs, such as lemon verbena and ginger, need protection from freezing temperatures. Some varieties, like thyme or lavender, may be able to withstand outdoor growth. Protect your plants from freezing temperatures by keeping them in containers. It is not the best choice for every garden but can be used with many herbs.

Pots are not enough to protect your herbs from frost. You also need to ensure your plants have sufficient drainage. Plants that are kept in water can cause root rot. You shouldn't allow your plants to stay in water during winter. The winter outdoors is not a problem for herbs that can thrive in warm conditions like bay or thyme. Consider moving your herbs into a cold frame, or an unheated greenhouse, if you don’t want them to die before planting them. To help protect your plants from frost, ventilate them on warm days. You can cover your containers with cloches or a small coldframe, and they'll continue to grow and bloom.

In order to protect your herbs from frost and freeze, you need to know what season they prefer. Many herbs require constant water supply, especially rosemary. Warm-season herbs are more resilient to cold than those grown in cooler climates. Be sure to water them when it is cold. The best way to determine whether your plants need water is through a touch test. If it is too cold outside, indoor options may be an option.

You can still harvest herbs, even though winter may not be the best time to plant herbs in your garden. The most common way to do this is to cover your herbs with straw. This will extend their harvest time and allow you pick them even in winter. It will also ensure that the herbs stay fresher longer than if they have been covered in plastic. This will keep the soil moist. It can be very difficult for herb plants to survive winter, but it will.

Herbs that thrive in winter are ideal for container gardening. They can be transplanted and grown in containers during winter. It is possible to dry herbs in containers and store them for later. You can freeze them for use in soups, stews, or gravy. Fresh herbs can also be frozen for winter use by placing them in a freezer bags or an ice cube tin.

FAQ

Which type of lighting is best for indoor plants?

Because they emit less heat, floralescent lights are great for indoor gardening. They provide constant lighting that doesn't flicker or dimm. Fluorescent bulbs can be purchased in regular and compact fluorescent versions. CFLs use up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.

Is it possible to grow vegetables indoors?

Yes, you can grow vegetables indoors during winter. A greenhouse or grow light will be required. Before buying a greenhouse, check with your local laws.

Do I need to buy special equipment to grow vegetables?

Not really. All you need is a shovel, trowel, watering can, and maybe a rake.

Statistics

• It will likely be ready if a seedling has between 3 and 4 true leaves. (gilmour.com)
• 80% of residents spent a lifetime as large-scale farmers (or working on farms) using many chemicals believed to be cancerous today. (acountrygirlslife.com)
• According to a survey from the National Gardening Association, upward of 18 million novice gardeners have picked up a shovel since 2020. (wsj.com)
• According to the National Gardening Association, the average family with a garden spends $70 on their crops—but they grow an estimated $600 worth of veggies! - blog.nationwide.com

External Links

almanac.com

• First and last frost dates by ZIP Code

bhg.com

• 6 Essential Steps for Starting Your First Vegetable Garden Off Right

How To

How can I keep weeds away from my vegetable gardens?

Weeds are one of the biggest threats to growing healthy vegetables. They vie for water, nutrients sunlight and space. These tips will prevent them destroying your garden.

1. Take out all flowering plants
2. Get rid of any plant debris that may be around the base.
3. Mulch
4. Get enough water
5. Rotate crops
6. Don't let the grass grow too long
7. Keep soil moist
8. Plant early
9. Harvest often
10. Add compost
11. Use pesticides sparingly
12. Organic vegetables are best
13. Heirloom Seeds Available
14. Start small
15. Learn about companion planting
16. Be patient
17. Enjoy gardening!