When winter comes in India, it might seem like gardening time is over. But for herb lovers, it’s an opportunity to grow fresh herbs even in the cold. With some planning and care, you can enjoy fresh flavors and aromatic herbs in the winter. Here are the top 10 herbs that do well in the winter season. In this article, we’ll explore the winter-growing herb plants that tolerate winter and thrive in the chilly months.
Top Winter-Growing Herb Plants
We are discussing the top cold-hardy herbs that are suitable for the Indian climate and can be easily grown indoors or outdoors.
1) Rosemary: Perfect Herbs To Grow In Winter
Rosemary, with its woody stem and needle-like leaves, is a strong herb that stands up against the cold. The evergreen herb retains its greenery even in winter, adding a touch of life to your home garden.
- Grow bag size: A container with a depth of 12 inches or more.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is important.
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between watering
2) Oregano: The Resilient Winter Herb To Grow
Oregano is a hardy perennial that can tolerate the cold of winter. Its strong, earthy flavor adds depth to winter dishes like roasts and hearty sauces. Planting them in winter is the best decision and can be enjoyed throughout the season.
- Grow Bag Size: Use a container at least 6 inches deep
- Soil: Well-drained soil is good.
- Fertilizer: Slow-release plant fertilizers such as vermicompost and cow manure fertilizers are very good.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between watering
3) Chives: The Cold-Hardy Herb
Chives are famous for their mild onion flavor and can be easily grown during the winter months in India. They are best for garnishing winter soups and baked potatoes.
- Grow bag size: Containers with a depth of 6 inches or more.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is preferred
- Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
4) Peppermint: A Refreshing Winter Herb To Grow
Mint is a herb that adds flavor to almost all dishes. Mainly they prefer warm climates but sometimes can tolerate mild winter climates. Its refreshing taste can brighten your winter teas and desserts.
- Grow Bag Size: Grow best in 9-inch deep pots
- Soil: Good drainage soil
- Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
(Read More: Planting Guide: Growing Organic Herbs Indoors…)
5) Fennel: Winter-Growing Herb Plants
Fennel is a versatile herb that adds licorice-like flavor to your winter salads and roasted vegetables. It can withstand cold weather so you can grow them indoors or out in the garden.
- Grow bag size: Containers at least 12 inches deep
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
6) Dill: The Cool-Season Herb
Dill is a cool-season herb that can thrive in the winter. Because of its feathery leaves and fragrant seeds, it has become a favorite among gardeners. Its unique flavor enhances winter pickles, seafood dishes, and creamy soups.
- Grow bag size: Containers with a depth of 8 inches or more.
- Soil: Dill can tolerate a variety of soils.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
7) Thyme: Winter-Growing Herb Plants
Thyme is a low-growing cold-hardy herb that thrives in the winter season, providing rich flavor to stews and roasts. It can withstand frost and is the ideal choice for winter gardens.
- Grow bag size: Containers with a depth of 6 inches or more.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is important
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between watering
8) Sage: Best Cold Hardy Herbs
Sage is a popular perennial herb that can tolerate cold. It enhances winter dishes with its strong, earthy aroma. Its leaves add flavor to stuffing, roasts, and hearty soups. You can plant sage indoors or outdoors with proper growing conditions.
- Grow bag size: Containers with a depth of 8 inches or more.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is good
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
(Read More: Optimal Grow Bag Sizes for Vegetables, Herbs, and Fruits…)
9) Lemon Balm: Delight Herbs To Grow In Winter
Lemon balm is a delightful herb, famous for its citrus aroma and flavor. It can withstand mild winter conditions and is perfect for flavoring tea and desserts. You can plant lemon balm during the winter months and enjoy its strong scent throughout the season.
- Grow bag size: Grow bags with a depth of 8 inches or more
- Soil: Well-drained soil is preferred
- Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
10) Cilantro: The Cool-Season Herb
Cilantro is one of the popular herbs that withstand mild winter conditions. Its fresh, citrusy leaves are a welcome addition to winter soups, stews, and curries.
- Grow bag size: Choose a pot or grow bag at least 8 inches deep.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
- Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist
(Read More: Herbs To Plant In September In India…)
With proper care and maintenance of these herbs, you can enjoy the herbs throughout the winter. So what are you waiting for, start creating a cold hardy herb garden indoors or outdoors and enjoy natural flavors in dishes. Share this post with family and friends and share your thoughts about the article.