Windowsill Gardens And National Garden Week
By Ana Zuravliova
This week sees the start of the Royal Horticultural Society’s National Garden Week 2024 and it’s only four weeks until the return of the Chelsea Flower Show. Combine these events with a slightly nicer weather and it’s no surprise countless people across the country are starting to think about working on their gardens. That said, one in eight people don’t have access to a garden so today, we’ll be taking a closer look at windowsill gardening and give you some top tips for adding natural greenery to your home!
Choosing the right plants
When selecting plants for your windowsill garden, consider both your available space and your personal preferences. Herbs like basil, cress, and parsley are popular choices for windowsill gardens, as they require minimal space and can be harvested frequently for culinary use. Succulents and cacti are also excellent options for beginners, as they are low-maintenance and thrive in dry conditions. If you have a larger windowsill or want to add a pop of colour, consider flowering plants like geraniums or petunias. You can even consider more veggies including lettuce, beetroot and leeks for microgreens! For more inspiration, check out this article from Kew Gardens.
Caring for your windowsill garden
Once your windowsill garden is planted, proper care is essential to ensure its success. Water your plants regularly, taking care not to overwater or underwater them.
Check the moisture level of the soil regularly by inserting your finger into the soil – if it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. Additionally, be sure to rotate your plants periodically to ensure even growth and exposure to sunlight.
Creating a windowsill garden is a rewarding endeavour that allows you to connect with nature and beautify your living space, even in the heart of the city. By following these simple steps and embracing the joys of gardening, you can cultivate a thriving oasis of greenery right in your own home.
Choosing the right location
The first step in creating a windowsill garden is selecting the right room. Most plants require ample sunlight to thrive, so choosing a windowsill that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day is vital. South-facing windows typically provide the best light exposure, but east or west-facing windows can also work well. Additionally, consider the climate in your region and the specific needs of the plants you intend to grow.
If your micro-garden happens to be in a room where you still need privacy, don’t worry, there are plenty of window furnishings which will provide enough sunlight while still keeping your privacy. Day & Night blinds, voiles, Venetian blinds and even shutters provide plenty of flexibility for finding the ideal balance of natural light and privacy.
Prepare your presentation
Once you’ve identified the perfect spot and readied your window, it’s time to choose your containers. Windowsill gardens offer fantastic versatility, and you can use a wide array of containers, including pots, troughs, or even recycled containers like mason jars or tin cans. With so many options, you enrich your room’s decor with a mixture of containers and pots in different colours and materials.
If you don’t need high levels of privacy around your garden window, you can add a lovely plant-inspired blind in the window. The best options for this are roller blinds and Roman blinds because when raised, they still show off much of your chosen design.
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