We would all like to have a big yard or sunny balcony where we could grow vegetables and herbs. But if this is not the case for you, you may want to consider indoor vegetable gardening.
What Vegetables to Choose?
Firstly, understand that not all plants are suited to growing inside your home. The lack of sunshine is the main factor, but there is also the absence of insects and wind. These latter two are responsible for pollination. The solution is, therefore, to turn to vegetables that require no (or little) pollination. Leafy greens like lettuces, spinach and bok choy are good options. Likewise, small-sized root vegetables can be grown (container gardening is not possible for large-root plants). Think baby carrots, mushrooms, broccoli, peppers, radishes, tomatoes, gerkhins and chilies. But the best options are micro-greens and culinary herbs that will easily grow in the home as they are harvested when young, before they become affected by the lack of sunlight. Most fruits are equally too high energy-consuming to be grown indoors, except for lemons.
Preparing the Pots
It is important that you use a plant-specific potting soil: they don’t all have the same nutritional needs. Likewise, you must ensure that water can run out freely by piercing drainage holes so the roots don’t drown. Alternatively, you can place small clay balls in the bottom of the pots to prevent water stagnation, which could asphyxiate the plants.
How to Compensate for the Lack of Sun
It is best to place your pots directly on a window sill (ideally south facing) so that the plants can fill up on energy. But because the sun doesn’t come out every day, especially during the fall and winter, some homeowners equip themselves with fluorescent grow lights. These lamps are heatless, so they will provide the shoots with light without burning them. The ideal height is 15 cm above the plants. They grow quickly, so you will need to raise the lights regularly. You can also purchase a timer to set when the fluorescent lights turn on and off to control when the plants sleep.
The Right Temperature
It would seem that plants thrive at the same temperatures as humans. This is why you will absolutely not have to change your cooling or heating habits (unless you like to be in rooms that are colder than 18 degrees Celsius). Indeed, the ideal temperature is between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. Don’t forget this tip: don’t place your plants near the radiator. They might dry out!
The Pros and Cons
There are many advantages to having an indoor garden. One of them is improved air quality thanks to the plants converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. It may also be more economical for you to grow your own veg instead of buying them at the grocery store or green grocer. Having easy access to these vegetables (at your fingertips!) may likewise encourage you to eat more of these healthy foods. Not to mention the relaxing atmosphere created by your green friends. However, understand that the more you want to grow “demanding” fruits and vegetables, the more time and money (particularly in grow lamps) you will have to invest.