Growing herbs indoors is one of the most easy things you can do in a small space garden. This spring, it is the perfect time to seed starting. Fresh herbs from your own growing herbs indoors setup taste better than anything from a supermarket. Here is the complete beginner guide to growing herbs indoors.
Light Requirements
Most edible plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. South-facing windowsills and balconies get the most light in the UK. If your space gets less than 4 hours of direct sun, focus on leafy greens and herbs which tolerate partial shade. For year-round growing regardless of natural light, an LED grow light running 14-16 hours daily replaces sunlight entirely.
Choosing the Right Containers
Container choice affects everything from root health to watering frequency. Fabric grow bags offer the best drainage and air circulation for most vegetables. Self-watering planters are ideal for herbs and leafy greens that need consistent moisture. Whatever you choose, make sure it has adequate drainage holes — waterlogged roots are the fastest way to kill a container plant.
Mars Hydro TS1000 Full Spectrum LED Grow Light (150W)
The serious upgrade from the TS600. Covers 80x80cm for veg and 60x60cm for flowering with 150W true draw. Dimmable from 0-100% so you can dial in the exact intensity for seedlings through to fruiting. 354 high-efficiency LEDs deliver the same trusted Mars Hydro full spectrum (3000K-6500K plus 660nm red and IR). Fanless aluminium heatsink keeps it silent. Over 850 reviews on Amazon UK with a 4.7-star average — one of the best-selling grow lights in the country. Daisy-chainable for expansion. 5-year warranty.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Yellow leaves usually mean overwatering or nutrient deficiency — check drainage first, then consider a balanced liquid feed. Leggy seedlings are reaching for light — move them closer to a window or add a grow light. Aphids cluster on new growth and can be blasted off with a strong spray of water. Blossom end rot on tomatoes comes from inconsistent watering — maintain even moisture and the problem stops.
Quick Tips for Success
- Harvest herbs from the top down — cutting the stem tips promotes branching.
- Pinch herbs regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering.
- Succession sow salad greens every 2-3 weeks for a continuous supply.
- Perlite mixed into potting soil improves both drainage and aeration.
- Choose dwarf or compact varieties bred specifically for containers.
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