Hey everyone! I'm new to indoor gardening and I've recently managed to get my hands on some chives. My past outdoor gardening attempts haven't gone too well due to weather, pests, and planning issues, so I'm really hoping to get this right. I have a grow light and heat lamp, but I'm using a glass container with a mesh lid to keep my curious cat away. Unfortunately, this container doesn't have any drainage holes, and I'm worried about the soil conditions. What kind of soil mixture should I use to give my chives the best chance at thriving? Also, do you have any tips for growing indoor plants around an inquisitive cat who loves to explore and knock things over? I'd appreciate any advice!
3 Answers
Honestly, if chives are tough for you, you could try growing green onions instead. They’re super easy to maintain and have a similar flavor! Plus, they can tolerate a bit more neglect if you’re worried about balancing it all with your cat around.
Growing chives indoors can be tricky since they prefer cooler temperatures. Instead of using a heat mat, consider keeping your chives on a high shelf with good airflow. Regular potting soil works well, but since your container doesn't drain, be cautious with watering. You might want to set up some kind of critter-proof barrier if you can get a regular pot with drainage. Also, consider growing cat grass to satisfy your cat's curiosity!
Great idea about the critter cage! I’ve also tried putting my plants on top of furniture. It keeps them safe from my pets and gives them good light.
Make sure not to overwater since you don't have drainage. You might want to create a drainage layer in your setup. Using small stones at the bottom can help. As for your cat, creating a barrier that allows for some airflow but keeps your plant safe is definitely key.
Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll keep that in mind. I love chives, but maybe starting with green onions would be a smart move.