Growing Herb Seeds In Pots

[4jonny]

We are having a problem growing herbs indoors. We get them to about 2 inches high and then they start to die. Could it be our water? We have well watered them in our house. I have tried about 4 different times to grow herbs and it just doesn't work in our house. They are basic herbs; basil, thyme, coriander, parsley and chives. Nothing is working. Please help us.

Thanks.

[Lorraine]

Herbs can be grown successfully indoors - it's a matter of trial and error !!! They need a well-drained soil that is not too rich. I've mixed coarse sand with potting soil in the past, and this has worked well. They definitely need good drainage. You may be overwatering which causes root rot. You don't want to let them dry out, but they should never be standing in water.

Sunlight is another important factor. They really do need a good few hours of sunlight a day - so a sunny windowsill is a must.

I would make a few sowings in varios pots, and try them in different positions around the house. You should eventually find a place where they will be happy.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on.

[Tussiemussie]

You could try a windowbox outside if you don't have a garden, most herbs are pretty hardy.

[Lizald]

Hi

Do the seedlings just keel over - sort of grow transparent about half way up the stem and then die?

It sounds like 'damping off' which is a fungal infection - often nothing you can do about it and it's not necessarily anything you've done.

This page on the RHS explains http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile...amping_off.asp

You could use Cheshunt Compound - you can buy it at your local garden centre or Wilkinson's or similar.

There are instructions on the tin.

Use a separate water spray purely for this - if you're growing lots of seeds, then it'll be worth it.

It's not expensive and a solution of a pint will last for a while.

Use it when sowing and transplanting and you shouldn't have the same problems next time.

Don't be disheartened - just try again

Regards

Liz

[Lizald]

For information regarding damping off/dying seedlings, please click on the link

http://www.the-herb-guide.com/damping-off.html

This post prompted me to write a page about dying seedlings - not sure whether that's good or bad - it's information that should have been there from the beginning really - so thank you for prompting me to do it.

Keep trying is the overall advice

Never give up :-)

Regards

Liz