Indoor Edible Garden for Beginners
Guest Blog By: Angelique Lim, Dietetics and Nutrition, University of Alaska
Spring is here! As we say hello to the warm and bright sunshine, we say goodbye to frosts. For garden growers, spring is the time to start sowing. For curious and aspiring gardeners, sowing means planting seeds. Yet, growing plants, fruits, and vegetables can still sound very worrisome. Where to begin? A patio? A balcony? Windowsills? As crazy as this sounds, it is possible to grow edible plants indoors. However, when it comes to indoor edible gardening in Alaska, there are limited options. But the good news is that it can still be accomplished. In fact, carrots, tomatoes, eggplants, garlic greens, peppers, lettuce, kale, swizz chard, and basil can thrive indoors. Before starting an indoor edible garden, consider the amount of sunlight, types of containers, options for seeds, the richness of the soil, and making time for watering.
Sunlight
Adequate sunlight brings plants to maturity and alleviates stress. Therefore, a small space that can receive a minimum of 8 hours of daylight is crucial. South-facing windows get the most light. It’s best to place plants within one foot of the window. If you don’t have a south-facing window, placing plants close to any window will be sufficient. However, lettuce and other leafy greens can grow in light shade. A sun calculator can help determine if your plants are getting enough sun. Sun calculators can range from $19-$35. Rotating plants to equally get enough sunlight is also a good idea. As you become more experienced, you can acclimate your plants to the outside sun and weather by setting them outside for a few hours and bringing them back inside once it gets dark, that's if you plan to eventually keep them outside one day. For now, we are keeping things simple!
Seeds
Seed packets help explain how big plants get; look for keywords such as pixie, dwarf, baby, etc. In addition, seed packets can also inform you about a timeframe of when to start planting as well as how deep you must bury your seeds. You can purchase your seeds online or visit your local gardening store.
Container
The best indoor containers are those that maintain moisture and have proper drainage. Beginners can save money by using five-gallon containers and drilling holes underneath. You can even build your own container; just remember how deep you need your container to be (hint: check your seed packet!) Generally, your containers must be at least twelve inches long across.
Soil
Soil is filled with organic matter than helps plants to grow. But, using fresh POTTING MIX instead of garden soil is very important. Also, you need fertilizer to feed your plants. Using a fertilizer made from a fish emulsion or seaweed 1-2x a week will keep your plants happy and fed.
Water
Water fills the fruits and vegetables and keeps the soil moist. Plants must be watered regularly at room temperature. Here's a tip: Stick our fingers down the soil about an inch; add some water if the soil feels dry.
When Plants Die
As we lose five hours of daylight daily during the winter in Alaska, plants may undoubtedly die. That's ok; it happens! If the plant looks severely ill, throw it out. Otherwise, re-pot and nurse it back to life (Good luck, you can do it!). Also, be prepared to fight off pests; your local garden store can generally inform you of the proper type of pesticide you can safely use inside your home; this may vary by plant, soil, and space. LED lights can provide warmth and light as it gets dark during the winter. All worries aside, make sure to grow edible plants that you truly enjoy; this makes the experience worthwhile! Happy April!
