I took the same plant outdoors this summer and plan to bring it in again - along with several other herbs simply for the enjoyment of fresh-cut herbs in January.
Here are some simple steps to success and enjoyment of fresh herbs in your kitchen this winter.
First of all, select plants that aren’t big, overgrown, and past their prime. I have a few basil plants that are smaller than the others; therefore, I am going to bring these in. I planted them later in the season and have been picking leaves from them regularly.
Next, pick a pot that’s suitable for the size of the plant. A pot that is about 2” larger than the size of the root ball is best. If it’s too big, you’re likely to have water problems.
In addition, use a good soilless potting mix that is lightweight and well-drained. This is critical as many people tend to overwater indoor plants during the winter months.
Pot up the herb plant and add soil and water thoroughly. If the weather stays nice for another week or so, you can leave it outdoors in the full sun in order to encourage root growth and establishment.
Moving it indoors is the tricky part. First, make sure you move it inside well before temperatures drop into the freezing range. If it’s an annual herb such as basil, you risk frost or freeze damage if you wait too late. I like to leave it outside in the full sun as long as the weather permits.
When you move it indoors, make sure you place the pot in the window with the most light possible. If you have access to an artificial light set up for indoors, that’s even better.
Remember that herbs like full sun and hot weather in order to thrive. Therefore, keep in mind that they won’t likely thrive indoors under lower lights, lower humidity, and normal house temperatures.
However, they will still grow just enough so that you can enjoy them.
I keep mine in the north window, which is actually the window with the least amount of light, but I have three large windows that provide just enough light for the plants to grow.
They will get a little spindly and thin in this lower light setting but do OK.
In addition, before you bring this in, inspect the plant thoroughly for any signs of insects or insect eggs. You don’t want to bring these indoors.
If you do get an insect infestation during the winter, use hand-removal methods to eliminate the pests. You really don’t want to use pesticides on herbs when you will be consuming them.
If you haven’t done this before, try it with just one herb this year and see how you like it. If you don’t have herbs in the landscape right now, you can also find new ones at the garden stores and groceries.
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