A Minnesota Guide to Indoor Herb Gardens (That Actually Survive Winter)

It’s 4:30 p.m., already dark, and the kitchen window is doing that frosty-pane thing. Welcome to Minnesota. The good news? You can still snip basil for pasta and mint for tea without braving the snow. Here’s a simple, cold-climate-friendly way to start (and keep) an indoor herb garden—tested tips, local resources, and zero robot speak.

Why indoor herbs (especially here)

• Fresh flavor on demand—no sad, pricey clamshells.

• Budget-friendly and low-waste (harvest as you cook).

• Green therapy when the weather says “nope.”

Minnesota realities to plan around

• Light is scarce in winter. Most herbs want at least 6–8 hours of direct light; indoors, plan on ~12 hours under grow lights to keep plants sturdy, not leggy. University of Minnesota Extension

• Drafts are real. Windowsills can be too cold; keep plants just off the glass and away from vents. Water when the top ½ inch is dry and never let pots sit in water. University of Minnesota Extension

What to grow first (easy wins)

• Basil, chives, parsley, cilantro for everyday cooking.

• Thyme, oregano, rosemary if you like woodsy flavors.

• Mint is a star—just give it its own pot (it spreads). University of Minnesota Extension

The quick-start setup

• Containers: Anything with drainage. Saucers or a boot tray catch extra water.

• Potting mix: A light, well-draining indoor mix.

• Light: A simple full-spectrum LED bar or clamp light. Aim 6–10 inches above the canopy and run it ~12 hours daily in winter. University of Minnesota Extension

• Fertilizer: During active growth, use a liquid fertilizer at half strength about every six weeks for indoor containers. Skip heavy feeding in the dark months. University of Minnesota Extension

Step-by-step (10 minutes to done)

1. Pick the spot: Brightest window you have, but not right against icy glass. Add a small fan on low for airflow if the corner is stagnant. University of Minnesota Extension

2. Pot it up: Fill with mix, plant seedlings (or sow seeds per packet), and water thoroughly—then drain.

3. Light schedule: Set a cheap outlet timer for ~12 hours on/12 off in winter; shorten as days lengthen. University of Minnesota Extension

4. Water right: Finger test to ½ inch; water only if dry. No soggy feet. University of Minnesota Extension

5. Harvest often: Snip above a leaf pair to encourage bushy growth.

6. Rotate weekly: Quarter-turn the pots so they don’t lean toward the window.

Troubleshooting (MN edition)

• Leggy, pale plants? Not enough light—move closer to the window or extend the grow-light hours. University of Minnesota Extension

• Crispy tips? Dry indoor air. Group plants, add a pebble tray, and keep them away from heat vents.

• Gnats or mites? Let soil dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps and a gentle insecticidal soap if needed.

A seasonal plan that fits our climate

• Spring → Summer: If you want bigger harvests, move container herbs outside once frost danger passes. Full sun = better flavor. University of Minnesota Extension

• Early fall (September): Before real cold sets in, bring potted tender herbs (think basil, rosemary, bay, lavender) back inside. Check for pests first. University of Minnesota Extension

• Deep winter: Expect slower growth. Water less, don’t over-fertilize, and keep the lights consistent. University of Minnesota Extension

Learn in person around the Twin Cities

• University of Minnesota Extension — clear, Minnesota-specific guidance on growing herbs indoors and out. University of Minnesota Extension+1

• Minnesota Landscape Arboretum — rotating gardening and horticulture classes from local pros. arb.umn.edu

• Bachman’s — workshops and seasonal make-and-take classes; great for beginners. bachmans.com

• Wagners Garden Center — hands-on herb bowl and houseplant workshops pop up often. Wagner Greenhouses

• Tonkadale Greenhouse — events and helpful herb variety guides. tonkadale.com+1

• Tangletown Gardens — trend-forward shop with classes and seasonal events. Tangletown GardensTangletown Gardens

• Minnesota State Horticultural Society (Northern Gardener) — cold-climate tips and classes. Northern Gardener

Where Outdoor Aesthetix fits in

When the snow melts, we design patio herb planters, kitchen-door container gardens, and raised beds that look good and actually work in our climate. We can also plan an indoor grow-light setup now and a summer outdoor upgrade later—so your basil never has an off-season.

Explore our services: Landscape Design & Install · Seasonal Cleanups · Project Gallery · Contact Us

Skimmable FAQ

How much light do I really need?Aim for 6–8 hours of direct sun, or ~12 hours under LEDs in winter. University of Minnesota Extension

Why does my basil collapse after I bring it inside?It’s adjusting to lower light and drier air. Cut back watering, give it strong light, and avoid drafts; expect a short “meh” period. University of Minnesota Extension

Can I pot multiple herbs together?Yes—match water/sun needs. Keep mint solo (it’s a runner).