What are common mistakes in indoor herb gardening?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Avoiding typical errors assured your indoor herb garden flourished. Many newcomers experience preventable maladies that impede growth or kill plants. Recognizing these errors early will save time and frustration. Your herbs will compensate you with generous harvests when properly nurtured.
Overwatering Soil Herbs
- Leads to root rot and fungal growth
- Check soil moisture before watering
- Let top inch dry between waterings
- Use pots with drainage holes
Insufficient Light Exposure
- Causes leggy growth and poor flavor
- Provide 12-16 hours daily for Mediterranean herbs
- Use full-spectrum LED grow lights
- Rotate plants weekly for even exposure
Improper Harvesting
- Weakens plants and reduces yields
- Never remove over 30% of foliage
- Cut above leaf nodes for regrowth
- Use sharp sanitized scissors
Avoid problems with nutrients in hydroponics. Check pH every two weeks. Change solutions every month to avoid salt building up. Each brand has its own unique nutrient concentrations, so please read and follow the brand's specific instructions. Simple steps to eliminate deficiency issues that turn leaves yellow.
Crowding herbs limits their potential severely. Allow 4-6 inches between plants for air circulation. Thin seedlings during early growth stages. Proper spacing prevents mold and encourages robust development.
Temperature consistency matters greatly. Avoid placing gardens near heat vents or drafty windows. Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth and development. Sudden fluctuations stress plants and reduce essential oil production.
Read the full article: 7 Best Indoor Herb Gardens for Your Kitchen
