What To Grow When You Have No Outdoor Space

Do you have windows that face south? Or west? Or east? If so, then you can grow herbs and other plants indoors! Being in an apartment does not mean you can't have a garden. A little herb garden will enhance your living space with delightful fragrances. And, when you cook with them, they will enhance all your dishes. Herbs are simple to grow and don't require a lot of space, so they are perfect for an indoor garden venture.

Where Does My Garden Go?

Any window that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight can be a location for growing herbs. South-facing windows will get more sun than that, and other windows may get enough too. Look around your apartment. There are probably more spots than you realized.

What Can I Grow?

Basil, mint, oregano, chives, rosemary, and thyme are the easiest plants to grow. Rosemary, basil, and thyme need sun and south-facing windows or balconies. Mint, oregano, and chives will do fine with 6 hours of sun a day. Those are for the east and west-facing windows or any that are shaded by outdoor trees or buildings.

Basil is an annual, meaning the plants won't last forever. Plant new seeds every month to have a continuous supply of fresh leaves.

• Lemon Sweet Basil
• Cinnamon Basil

Oregano and mint need to be given their own containers since they are hardy perennials that will grow rampant given a chance. They will readily grow year-round in warm climates.

• Greek Oregano
• Peppermint

Rosemary and thyme will grow as big as the container allows, spreading out as they age. They are perennials that like lots of light.

• Rosemary
• Thyme

Chives are a perennial that grows well in full sun but can also grow in partial sun. Cut the leaves off, leaving two inches at the base, and they will re-sprout continuously.

• Common Chives
• Garlic Chives

An indoor herb garden will provide color and life to your apartment. They may even make you forget for a moment that you are in the city!