Best way to raise your little herblings is by planting the seeds in fresh potting soil in a tin can. I'm sure you go through at least 1-2 tin cans a month, from soups to tin veggies to tin meat (no judging here).
Within 2 weeks you will see little green pods pop through the soil and trust me, everyday you will get excited in the mornings to see how much they have grown!
All you have to do is wash the tin cans thoroughly. Use dish soap and rinse at least three times with warm water. Peel off the labels (optional). Dry it out.
Pierce two or three small holes on the bottom of the can using a the point of a sharp knife. PLEASE BE CAREFUL. Place the tip of the knife on the can (rest the can on a stable surface) and gently twist the tip of the knife between your hands until you start digging through the tin. The hole should be small enough so that excess water will drain but not big enough for soil to fall through.
Place the tin onto a small lid or a some type of water catcher so when the water drains it doesn't spill all over your counter.
Fill the tin with potting soil (3/4 to the top of the can). Place the seeds on top, add water and then cover with soil to the top of the can. It is important you don't place your seeds too deep. I learned the lesson that if you put the seeds too deep they will never come out. Probably because they cannot access the sun's energy. Once you've planted your seeds, place near a sunny spot (indoors or outdoors if warm). Water every 2-3 days to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet (it needs to air out).
Voila... 2 weeks later you should see a tiny green bud peaking through the soil. 6-8 weeks later you will have your herbs. You can maintain them easily and have them last you the spring and part of the summer :)
Enjoy!
p.s. be creative and decorate your tin cans before planting. It will help you remember what you've planted in the tin ;)
