Many people who live in apartments in an urban environment believe that the only horticultural options available to them are houseplants. But with just a few clay pots and some high quality potting soil, even those with only a tiny patio can grow their own culinary herbs. Lacking a patio, some types of plants for culinary use can easily be grown on sunny windowsills.
Getting a small urban herb garden started is easy. Necessary supplies can be purchased from any home-and-garden retailer. Terracotta pots are the best type to use for this, though some may prefer to buy decorative ceramic pots as a way to enhance the ambiance of their outdoor living space. Culinary plants usually aren't very particular, although it's recommended that good potting soil be used. Some types of potting soil come infused with fertilizer, eliminating the need to make an extra purchase.
Whether to start culinary plants from seed or to buy small starts from a garden center is up to individual preference. Although there is something magical about seeing a seed sprout and watching a plant grow, more immediate rewards are possible with plants that are already started. Those who live in northern climates with short growing seasons may want to forgo starting from seed unless they do so on a windowsill that has adequate light several weeks before the date of the last frost in their specific area. People who live in semi-tropical climates can grow most culinary plants during any month of the year, though some cultivars may need protection from the hot summer sun.
Deciding what types of plants to grow will depend on the individuals personal taste in food. Those who like Mediterranean fare will want to consider growing Greek oregano, while those who enjoy cold iced tea or mint juleps on a regular basis will want to include a peppermint plant among their gardening efforts. Chives grow quickly and well in most climates and can be used in a variety of dishes. Some people like to make their own chamomile tea and therefore grow chamomile in pots on their balconies or patios. Sage is another popular culinary plant as well as basil, tarragon and cilantro.
No matter what type of plants the urban dweller elects to grow for culinary purposes, it's important that the flowers of these plants be snipped off before they set seed. Not doing so will result in the plant going into premature dormancy, or in the case of annual plants, ending their life cycles.
Culinary plants that are grown in pots will need to be watered on a regular basis. A general rule of thumb is that when the surface of the soil in the pot is dry to the touch, it's time to water. Some plants, particularly those in the mint family, will need more water than others. It's best to water until the water reaches the top of the pot and then stop in order to prevent over-watering.
Urban gardening gives city residents a way to have home-grown plants to use in meal preparation as well as enhance the atmosphere on their decks, indoor windowsills, patios or balconies. There are also psychological benefit to be derived from small-scale container gardening, such as the feeling of satisfaction caused by creating a delicious meal using home-grown plants.
Lizzie Simmonds has been growing her own food for over 15 years. For easy fruit & veg growing tips and advice, Lizzie suggests signing up for the Woolly Green Weekly, a great source of gardening chat, products, offers and competitions. Woolly Green is a new website, for people who like to garden as a bit of an antidote to their otherwise busy lives.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lizzie_Simmonds
No comments:
Post a Comment