New Herb Plants from Old

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Bring a bit of flavor indoors for fall and winter. Take cuttings of your favorite herbs to create a windowsill garden.

Use a pruner or garden scissors to take 4 to 6 inch cuttings of rosemary, oregano, sage, mint and other herbs. Stick the cut end into a container filled with perlite, vermiculite or a well-drained potting mix.

Place the container in a brightly lit location out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist. Once rooted, the herbs can be planted in their own individual containers or together in a larger pot.

Move the plants to a sunny window or under artificial light. Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil are starting to dry.

Allow the plants to get established before you start to harvest. Remove leaves and stems as needed to add flavor to your favorite dish. Regular harvesting will encourage branching and that means more for you to harvest and enjoy.

A bit more information: No plants to propagate? Talk to gardening friends and relatives. And, if your garden center is out of plants, check in the produce department of your favorite grocery store. Many now sell plants so you can grow your own.

For more gardening tips, how-to garden videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com.