Live Herb Plants for Indoors

Aloe Vera

• The aloe vera plant has been used often for its medicinal value, as the oil from the plant can soothe minor cuts and burns. It makes an ideal herb to grow indoors. Keep your home more than 41 degrees Fahrenheit, and plant this herb in loose, sandy soils (aloe vera originally comes from the desert). Water aloe vera as needed, and ensure that you do not over-harvest. The plant will have to re-potted every spring, as it typically grows prolifically in warm weather.

Sage

• Useful for medicinal and culinary purposes, sage has always been popular for indoor herb gardens. It can be used in tea to aid in digestion and can help to soothe a sore throat. Plant sage in a warm, sunny location, making sure to keep it away from extreme temperatures. Sage requires a great deal of pruning, especially after flowering. Pruning keeps the stems from becoming too woody. Provide direct sunlight, and be careful not to over-water. Sage needs to be harvested lightly in the first year, although the harvest can be increased in subsequent years. The leaves can be dried and stored.

Valerian

• This classic indoor herb often is used to soothe rattled nerves and to help alleviate insomnia. The root of valerian is what possesses medicinal properties, and the plant will need to grow for at least a year before the root can be used. Valerian requires loamy, rich soil, regular watering, and a sunny location. The root can be harvested during the second growing season and dried for future use.

Houseleek

• Houseleek, which has some similar uses to aloe vera, is one of the oldest medicinally used herbs. In addition to soothing burns, it can be brewed into a tea for a variety of ailments. Houseleek requires well-drained soils and full sun to grow well. It is very resilient, although make sure the houseleek is never over-watered.