Do you want to add some colour to your kitchen and make it more inviting? Growing plants in your kitchen is an ingenious way to do that.

Kitchen plants not only act as a household decorative, they also cleanse the environment by removing toxic air such as carbon monoxide.

Unfortunately, not all plants can thrive indoors. But fret not, I’m here to discuss some great indoors plants that won’t die on you. They’re plants we all know, and are easy to grow and care for.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Aloe Vera

We all know the great benefits of this super plant to the body from the skin, to hair, to being the perfect concoction for over 100 ailments. It is also looks great as a household décor.

Here are some of its greatest benefits.

1. Heals burns and wounds: this plant’s gel has soothing, moisturizing, and cooling properties. In case you get a burn, apply the gel a few times in a day to the affected area and you’ll definitely notice the change.

2. Boost digestive health: aloe vera helps the digestive tract and heals most of the stomach ailments like the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Further, it can help prevent the growth of H. pylori, which is bacteria found in the digestive tract that causes ulcerations in the stomach lining.

3. Heals acne: this potted plant can help keep your skin clear and hydrated.

4. Great alternative to mouthwash: aloe vera’s natural ingredients, including vitamin C, can help block plaque. If you experience bleeding gums or swollen gums, it is a great option as compared to normal toothpaste.

Aloe Vera is easy to maintain, and that makes it a great succulent for your kitchen. Before you buy it, find a spot in your kitchen that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Plant it in a pot, and then place it in that spot.

 Please note: too much light can damage the leaves making them turn yellow.

Also, water the plant infrequently. You should always allow the soil to dry before watering it next time.

Indoor Herbs

Here are fresh herbs that are great to have in your kitchen windows.

1.      Basil

Basil makes the best cuisines, and is a great addition to salads, sandwiches and sauce. Growing basil indoors is easy.

All you need to do is buy seeds or small plants, grow them in a pot with well-drained, nutrient rich soil, and place the plant in good lighting. Watering basil often can destroy it. Therefore, you need to water when necessary, i.e. when the soil begins to dry up.

2.      Mint

If you love lemonades and cocktails such as Mojitos, then you should consider planting your own mint to have a steady supply of mint leaves.

Mint grows well in medium rich moist soil. Do not water it frequently to avoid it being soggy as that can damage its roots. This plant performs best where there’s bright light.

There are varieties of mint such as apple mint, peppermint, banana mint, etc. Spearmint is my personal favorite because it has an intense flavor.

3.      Thyme

Thyme has both medical and culinary uses. It has amazing anti-bacterial properties and is effective in fighting bacteria that can bring skin acne.

Thyme is often added in eggs, beans, and vegetable dishes. However, it can also be used for flavoring lamb, poultry, and soups.

It should be planted in small pots as small as 4 to 6 inches. Plant it in fast draining soil and place it in a spot that gets direct sunlight.

4.      Dhania/Coriander

Dhania, also known as cilantro, pairs well with many dishes. Personally, I like to use it as a topping or garnish.

It’s relatively easy to grow. Plant seeds or use starter plant from the garden. Then put them in a pot that has plenty of drainage holes in the bottom to drain excess water. Ensure you water it thoroughly but infrequently. Wait till the soil is dry to water again. It grows well under direct sunlight.

5.      Oregano

Fresh oregano has an intense flavor. It is a great choice to pair with meats, vegetables, and even pasta dishes.

The best way to grow oregano indoors is by planting a tip that was previously cut from an outdoor oregano plant. Once this is done, plant it in a pot or container and place it in a spot with bright light. Water it when soil is dry.

6.      Rosemary

Have you ever tasted some roasted rosemary potatoes? If not, please do. We will be giving you that recipe on our next release.

The fragrance and aroma of rosemary is out of this world. There’s nothing like it.

Rosemary is also planted from an off cut of an already growing bush. Just one branch is enough. Put it cut-side into the soil in a pot and water it. This plant thrives in dry conditions and likes its soil a bit dry, so be careful when watering.

7.      Bay

The bay leaf is aromatic, and is mostly used to prepare soups, stews, or other slow simmered foods.  It has a slightly sharp, peppery taste.

To plant it in your kitchen, choose containers that are few inches deep and wide to allow room for root growth. Use nutrient rich soil that is moist (not soggy) and place it in a spot with full light. Like the rest, water when soil is dry.

By: Caroline Wanjiru, Fursa Africa, Food Blogger