Light, Warmth, and Soil Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a warmth-loving annual herb that needs at least six hours of bright light a day, either from a sunny windowsill or an outdoor bed. It thrives in consistently warm conditions between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and is very sensitive to cold; even a light frost or temperatures below 50°F…
Origins and Growing Conditions Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, formerly classified as Rosmarinus officinalis) is a woody, evergreen perennial native to the rocky coastlines of the Mediterranean. That heritage explains its preferences: full sun for at least six hours a day, well-draining sandy or gritty soil, and a slightly alkaline pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Once established,…
Popular Thyme Varieties Thyme comes in dozens of species and cultivars, but a few stand out for home gardens. Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is the classic upright culinary variety used in cooking. Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) offers the same growth habit with a distinct citrus fragrance, popular in teas and desserts as well as savory…
Choosing the Right Spot A south- or west-facing window that gets at least four to six hours of direct sun is the best starting point for an indoor herb garden. During the shorter, weaker light of winter, a supplemental grow light run for 12-14 hours a day makes a noticeable difference in keeping growth compact…
