First update below: 22 January 2012 (Some success)
I was at my favorite garden center recently and noticed a half price sale on a kit to grow herbs in the window. I was a little reluctant to buy it because the only window available to me with sun is only partially facing south. When I combine that with winter in New Hampshire and the short daylight, I was less than convinced that I could grow herbs successfully. But, I am always up for a challenge and did spend the $7.50, (half price). But, before I stuck them in the window, I thought about ways to increase my odds of harvesting some Thyme, Parsley, and Basil.
My main concern is that the window gets pretty cold at night and that translates to poor germination and growth temperatures. So I decided to build sort of an insulated box with a couple of 7 1/2 watt nightlight bulbs. I build a lot with Styrofoam insulation board. This type of foam board is typically 1 inch thick and goes together well with 3 inch drywall screws. (Also called sheet rock screws). That way, I can make a temporary project and reuse the board after the experiment is over. The two photos below show the layout:
I was at my favorite garden center recently and noticed a half price sale on a kit to grow herbs in the window. I was a little reluctant to buy it because the only window available to me with sun is only partially facing south. When I combine that with winter in New Hampshire and the short daylight, I was less than convinced that I could grow herbs successfully. But, I am always up for a challenge and did spend the $7.50, (half price). But, before I stuck them in the window, I thought about ways to increase my odds of harvesting some Thyme, Parsley, and Basil.
My main concern is that the window gets pretty cold at night and that translates to poor germination and growth temperatures. So I decided to build sort of an insulated box with a couple of 7 1/2 watt nightlight bulbs. I build a lot with Styrofoam insulation board. This type of foam board is typically 1 inch thick and goes together well with 3 inch drywall screws. (Also called sheet rock screws). That way, I can make a temporary project and reuse the board after the experiment is over. The two photos below show the layout:
I am still not convinced that there will be enough light during January and February, but it is worth the attempt. I realize that I could add a grow light but this project is already in the overkill arena. So, I will cross my fingers and hope for the best. I can always buy the herbs at the market but where is the fun in that? The last photo is of the herbs planted and ready to grow. I will post updates on this post as something happens or fails to happen. Now, what can I cook that uses these herbs?
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