5 Common Herbs You Can Easily Grow in Kitchen Containers or Pots

Not everyone can afford a big kitchen garden and space issue is a common problem in India. But if you still want to eat organic produce from your garden, there are many herbs you can easily grow in your kitchen. No, you don’t need a garden; Small containers will work well. Growing herbs in containers at home can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both your gardening journey and the culinary enjoyment of your kitchen. These little green wonders not only add flavor to your dishes but also bring a touch of nature indoors. If you’re thinking about starting your own herb container garden, we have a treat for you. Not only are most herbs easy to grow, but they also thrive in containers, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels.

Which herbs are best in pots?

There are many herbs that you can easily grow in pots in your kitchen or in containers. Here, we’ve listed some of the most commonly used herbs in Indian kitchens – ones you’ll want to keep with you at all times.

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Here are 5 common herbs you can grow in containers:

1. Mint:

A fantastic all-rounder, mint is a must-have in any herb garden. Its uses range from soothing tea to refreshing mojitos to delightful mint and coriander chutneys. Mint thrives in the hot and sunny climate of India, but can also tolerate partially shaded areas that receive minimal sunlight. However, it requires regular feeding and watering to thrive. Plant each mint in a five-litre pot, and with proper care, it will reward you with abundant leaves year after year.

2. Coriander:

Coriander is a major part of Indian cuisine and its distinctive flavor enhances curries, chutneys and many other dishes. The trick with coriander is to keep it from bursting and becoming seeds too quickly. Sow the seeds in late summer or early monsoon, and you’ll get a bountiful harvest through the cooler months. Coriander prefers a shady spot, and by cutting the leaves regularly, you can increase its growth.

Also read:5 Kitchen Spices That Help Get Good Night’s Sleep – Expert Shares Herbal Tea Recipe

3. Basil:

Basil thrives in warmth and sunshine, making it ideal for sunny locations. Water it in the morning, as it doesn’t like to go to bed with wet roots.

4. Ajwain:

A favorite in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, oregano can also thrive in kitchen containers. It prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. The strong flavor of oregano is perfect for pasta sauces, pizza toppings and marinades.

5. Curry Leaves:

A quintessential ingredient in South Indian cuisine, curry leaves impart a distinctive and aromatic flavor to many dishes. These leaves love the hot and humid climate of India, and thrive in well-drained soils. Plant them in a larger container, as over time they may grow into small trees.

How to keep potted herbs healthy – tips to remember:

Group herbs with similar water requirements together and choose a pot size that can accommodate the herb’s growth. A five-litre pot generally works well for most herbs, but a larger pot may be necessary for some varieties.
When picking your herbs during the growing season, avoid cutting the stems from the base of the plant, as this can result in long, lean growth. Instead, pick the tips of each stem, about an inch or two above a pair of leaves. By doing this, you encourage the growth of two new shoots on each stem.
Don’t forget to feed the herbs growing in your containers with natural fertilizers like liquid seaweed or worm tea. These are rich in trace elements and minerals that promote healthy growth.
By growing your herbs in containers, you’ll enjoy nurturing these delightful plants while taking advantage of the fresh, fragrant flavors in your kitchen.