Top fruit, veg and plants for windowsill gardening

Green-thumbed Brits have been told how to cultivate plants from the comfort of their homes with windowsill gardening.

The gardening experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have named the best plants and flowers for windowsill gardening.

One in eight British households has no garden, but a new windowsill trend means everyone can get involved in gardening.

Windowsill gardening allows budding horticulturalists to brighten their indoor spaces, without needing a garden area or spending too much time caring for the plants.

 Herbs like basil, mint, parsley and chives are straightforward for people to take care of and grow from their windowsill throughout the year, making the perfect addition to the kitchen.

Homeowners can also grow beautiful flowers like purple orchids, sunflowers and daffodils, as well as veggies like radishes and tomatoes so they have access to fresh ingredients

A spokesperson for Garden Buildings Direct said: “Many plants thrive on a sunny windowsill, and it is a great way to improve your indoor space, especially for those without a garden or balcony.

“Having a limited space shouldn’t stop anyone from starting an indoor garden, and windowsill gardening is not only a great way for people to bring some life into the home and start a new hobby, but it also gives them access to fresh ingredients.

“Windowsills filled with the sun for most of the day are perfect for creating a mini garden inside the home, but there are some secrets to giving plants the best chance of blooming.

“Place a small saucer or tray underneath the plant pots to collect any spilt soil, or water or get rid of dead leaves and ensure the spot is cleaned regularly so there is always a fresh environment for the plants to grow.

“Also remember to regularly prune the windowsill plants to ensure their containers and trays aren’t overcrowded – as this could ruin or kill them.

Here are Garden Buildings Direct‘s best windowsill growers: 

1. Vegetables

Although some gardening beginners may think it’s hard to grow veggies on a windowsill, plenty can thrive in small indoor spaces. Kale, tomato, radish, peppers and chillies are some examples of vegetables that can be grown with the correct care.

2. Fruit 

Fruits can be grown from the windowsill, but it is more of a challenge as some varieties grow too big and tall to fit on a windowsill. Strawberries and blueberries are the best bet for a smaller space, but they need access to sunlight and plenty of water.

3. Herbs

Herbs are popular for windowsill gardeners because they grow well in small spaces all year round. Basil, mint, parsley and chives are simple to grow in containers straight from seeds, whereas herbs such as rosemary and oregano are easier to grow from a small plant.

4. Houseplants

Houseplants thrive in sunny spots, are great for growing on windowsills, and are easy to look after. Cacti plants are one of the most popular houseplants and require little care. A quick water every few weeks if the soil gets dry and the cacti will grow perfectly.  

5. Flowers

Plenty of flowers can thrive on windowsills, including orchids, sunflowers, daffodils, geraniums and violets. Flowers are a great option for windowsill gardening and will instantly bring colour into the indoor space.