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If you live in Boulder and enjoy gardening, you are probably aware that not much will grow here until temperatures begin to climb in the spring. That doesn’t mean, however, that you will need to give up on gardening altogether. Our beloved Boulder sunshine makes it easy to satisfy your green thumb and fight off those winter blues with a bit of indoor gardening. There’s nothing quite like fresh greenery to lift your spirits and add a pop of color in your apartment.
The key to growing plants in winter is learning which species are best suited for indoor environments, and we want to make that easy for you. Here are a few suggestions for the best plants to grow in your Boulder apartment this winter:
Air Plants
Our list begins with a unique type plant, which has recently caught on with indoor gardeners. Terrariums, commonly referred to as “air plants”, are a hassle-free way to add life to your home. The tiny plants don’t take root in soil; instead, they exist in glass spheres that offer ample light for growth.
The Colorado sunshine and dry air are ideal for these plants. Spray water on them once a day, keep them in direct sunlight, and they will thrive.
Microgreens
Micro green salads are the epitome of healthy eating. The tiny leaves are an excellent complement to nearly any menu item. Growing conditions for the leafy greens are exceptionally versatile, which means that you can safely include them in your apartment container garden plans.
Start with any old container, and sprinkle vegetable and herb seeds over the top of your soil. Cover the seeds with a bit more soil, then add water and wait. Keep the tray near a window and within three to five days, the seeds will germinate. Let the seedlings grow several inches high, cut the stems, and you’re ready to eat!
Leave the root system intact and your microgreens will sprout again. Harvested greens are good for three to five days in the refrigerator.
Basil
Basil is another great choice for anyone who wishes to grow fresh produce in their apartment. Start by planting your basil seeds in the same manner that you used for your microgreen seeds. Better still, the basil can even share a container with your microgreens, if you’re particularly space-conscious.
Be sure to keep basil soil well-drained, but sufficiently moist. This herb also enjoys warm temperatures and direct sunlight for at least six hours a day, so keep the plant by a window and maintain your apartment temperature at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Basil is ready to harvest when the plant displays full-grown leaves. Pick only the top ⅔ of leaves in order to give your plant a chance to naturally replenish your herb supply.
Clematis Family Plants
The clematis plant family are flowering, vine-like plants that flourish indoors. When cared for properly, their beautiful flowers will stay in bloom for as much as six months at a time.
Plant the clematis root ball in a large, well-draining container. Place several wooden dowel rods inside the container; these will eventually serve as a climbing structure for your plant. Your clematis should grow up the rods, while developing a strong base stem.
These plants require diligent watering, direct sunlight, and they will greatly benefit from the use of fertilizers. They’re the highest maintenance plant we’ve listed yet, but you’ll be well compensated for your efforts.
Tomatoes
We’re rounding out our last plant suggestion with another vine, but this time, it’s an edible variety. Most gardening enthusiasts know how to grow outdoor tomatoes, but did you know that this juicy red fruit grows just as well in an indoor container garden?
Start with a six-inch pot, and plant your seed. Keep the soil moist, but not runny, and ensure the seedling receives plenty of light. In approximately five to ten days, your plant will have germinated. When you see ripe fruit, you’re ready to harvest.
At about halfway through the tomato plant’s growing season, you’ll need to add several wooden dowels to the pot. Again, this gives the plant something to support itself as it continues to grow upward.
The variety of plants will add life to your home, and in some cases, it’ll even put delicious homegrown food on your table. Make a quick trip over to McGuckin’s, grab your supplies, and get started today.
If you’re looking for an apartment that is sunny and welcoming at any time of year, get in contact with us.