Growing herbs in pots allows you to have your favorite herbs close at hand. With the proper care, you will be able to enjoy these herbs year round. An early frost will not damage your plants, as they will be inside. Having the ability to control climate and humidity allows your herbs to thrive. Following some very simple steps will help your herbs to fulfill their true potential. No matter what skill level gardener you are, herbs are a very forgiving plant. There is no reason you should not be able to grow the herbs you use most often.

Soil is an important factor for any plant. When growing herbs in pots, you are allowed complete control over the soil. Not being at the mercy of weather conditions allows you to make sure your plants grow easily. One thing to keep a close eye on is what kind of soil you are using. Using pure potting soil is a mistake. This is because potting soil has too many nutrients for herbs. You can control this by mixing potting soil with sand. The added benefit of the sand in the soil is it retains more moisture. Layering the bottom of your pot with pebbles will also help the soil not to become water logged.

Water is a key factor to any plant. Herbs benefit from having the right amount of moisture. By misting your plants, you will help the leaves to soak in more water. This is important as plants are designed to absorb water through leaves as well as from roots. Plants, which have to absorb all their water from the soil, will struggle to survive. Make sure you check the soil before adding any water to a pot, as it should only be moist to the touch. If a puddle forms where you press down, your plant is drowning and needs to have water drained from the pot.

Sunlight is another of the highly important elements to growing herbs in pots. Picking the right place for your herb to grow is highly important. The best place for your pot is in a windowsill that faces either west or south. This allows your plant to have the right amount of sun. If this is not possible, you can buy a lamp designed to give plants artificial sunlight. Another option is to allow your herbs to spend some time outside every day. Perennials especially benefit from time outside. Make sure you do not give your herbs more sun than they need or the leaves will turn brown.

Wind is taken for granted when planting outside. When growing herbs in pots inside, plants are usually robbed of wind. Putting the pots outside will give them the wind they desire. Another way to give your plant some wind is to simulate it with a fan. Set your fan on low and direct it towards the pots. You will notice an improvement in plants that get a light wind.

Pruning is very important to the health of your plants. The added benefit of pruning herbs is you get to use what you cut. Growing herbs in pots is popular among those who use them the most. Proper pruning practices cause your plant to produce more. Do not be deterred from pruning for fear of wasting herbs. These can be dried, frozen, or given away to friends. Herbs can also be used in recipes for future dates. Freezing pesto is a great way to use an overabundance of basil.