Gardening doesn’t have to stop as the temperatures get colder, especially if you are into herb gardening!
One such way to extend the gardening season is by utilizing cold frames.
Cold frames create a warm and sunny environment for the plants inside. The plants are protected from frost and are grown in soil that is a bit warmer, which means that you can grow them during the coldest months.
In this article, we are going to share some tips on winter herb gardening. Keep reading to find out more!
Cold Frames Are The Best For Winter Herb Gardening
Don’t fret, cold frames are very easy to install!
You can either buy an already constructed cold frame or make one on your own using appropriate materials. If you want to start a DIY cold frame project, follow this video:
Once you’ve got everything set up, it’s time to start your herb garden. Start by picking out plants that will successfully grow in cold frames (more information down below). Provide enough moisture and make sure that the temperature doesn’t drop below 60°F during the day.
Remember to vent your cold frame during warmer days to avoid overheating. On the other hand, place an insulating cover over the frame once the temperature significantly drops (especially during the nighttime).
Interestingly, snow can actually act as an insulation during the extreme cold weather. However, you do need to remove it when the temperature starts to rise so that the plants can get the sunlight they need.
You might also find useful: How To Protect Plants From Spring And Fall Frost
What Herbs Can You Grow In Cold Frames?
There are a lot of plants and herbs that you can grow in cold frames. For instance, cold-tolerant chives can be sown in the spring and still provide fresh growth in the winter season, as long as you transplant them into cold frames during fall.
The wide range of mints can also be grown and harvested well into winter. Potted mints grown in cold frames will provide you with fresh and aromatic leaves whenever you need them!
If you like to add fresh parsley to your winter stews and soups, growing it in colder frames is a way to go. Opt for cold hardy varieties and plant them in winter frames.
Other herbs that can be successfully grown in cold frames include cilantro, rosemary, sage, fennel, thyme, oregano, and winter savory.
In the end, growing herbs in winter is like adding a sprinkle of freshness to the cold. Whether you use them in recipes or just enjoyed the green vibes, winter herb gardening brings a cozy touch to your space.