Vertical Hydroponic Herbs

Types of Herbs

• Most types of herbs can be grown hydroponically, but according to Suzanne Stapleton and Robert C. Hochmuth of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, short, leafy herbs are best for vertical hydroponics because they have stronger stalks and can be harvested all year. These include basil, oregano, parsley, sweet marjoram and thyme. Other popular herbs include dill, sage, rosemary, cilantro, tarragon and mint, which can be grown hydroponically.

Homemade Pots

• Homemade hydroponic herb pots can be made with pint-sized plastic pots and a gravel stone mixture. Be sure the pot does not have holes for drainage because the water needs to be retained around the plant's roots. Start the herb seeds by planting them in moisture-absorbent Jiffy pots. Fill the plastic pot with the gravel mixture, leaving room for the Jiffy pot to sit on top. When the seeds have sprouted, transfer the entire Jiffy pot to the plastic pot. Keep the Jiffy pot moist until roots begin to sprout out of the Jiffy pot. The roots will now reach down through the gravel to absorb the water in the pot. Keep the water level in reach of the plant's roots. String can also be tied to the pot's rim and the top of the window to encourage spindly plants such as dill to climb vertically.

Nutrients

• Nutrient solutions are an important part of hydroponic gardening. Without available soil nutrients, plants depend on the nutrients in the water to thrive. Valuable nutrients for plants include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, sulfur and magnesium, but different herbs can require more or less of certain nutrients. Local hardware or gardening stores often have a wide selection of hydroponic nutrient solutions for plants, which can cost $8 and up. Mix the solution according to the bottle's label by diluting it in water before watering the herbs.

Store-Bought Kits

• Pre-made hydroponic herb kits are also available, which contain everything necessary to start small vertical hydroponic herb gardens. Examples of kits include the Homegarden by Hydrofarm, which includes rocks, nutrient solution and wicking felt mats that carry moisture to the plant's roots. Aerogarden is another type of kit that includes a grow light for dim areas, an aeroponic "root-misting" system and pre-planted seeds. Both kits are ideal for kitchen windowsills and smaller spots in the house.