Mason Jar Herb Garden
This playbook provides a step-by-step guide to creating a compact, low-maintenance herb garden using mason jars. It covers the essential tasks from selecting appropriate jars and herbs to the maintenance required to sustain a healthy garden.
Step 1: Select Jars
Choose appropriate size mason jars for the herbs you intend to grow. Ensure they are clean and free of any cracks or chips.
Step 2: Layer Gravel
Place a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of each jar. This aids in drainage and prevents root rot.
Step 3: Add Soil
Fill the jars with a well-draining potting mix, leaving about an inch of space from the rim. Avoid soil that is dense or prone to compaction.
Step 4: Sow Seeds
Plant herb seeds in the soil following the spacing and depth instructions on the seed packet.
Step 5: Water Lightly
Gently water the planted seeds until the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Step 6: Sunlight Placement
Place the mason jars in a location that receives ample sunlight, preferably a windowsill that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Step 7: Monitor Growth
Keep an eye on the growth of the herbs. Ensure the soil remains moist at all times, but avoid overwatering.
Step 8: Thin Seedlings
Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out if necessary, leaving the strongest plants to continue growing.
Step 9: Fertilize
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks, following the instructions on the fertilizer's label.
Step 10: Harvest
Begin harvesting your herbs as needed, cutting off what you need without removing more than a third of the plant at a time.
General Notes
Herb Selection
Choose herbs that grow well indoors and do not require extensive root systems. Examples include basil, parsley, chives, mint, and cilantro.
Jar Maintenance
Regularly check for signs of mold or fungal growth on the jars and the soil surface. If this occurs, adjust watering habits and sunlight exposure accordingly.
Watering Tips
Consider the needs of the specific herbs you are growing as some may require more water than others. Use your finger to test the soil's moisture level before watering.