Whether you are known in your neighborhood as the one with the "green thumb" or instead as having killed every plant you've ever owned, indoor gardening can be for you. Whether you desire a little pop of friendly flowers to brighten up your living space, or have more practical motives such as herbs for cooking or medicinal purposes, gardening can be an inexpensive hobby you will soon find yourself in love with.

"Why indoor gardening?" you may ask. For one, indoor gardens are highly versatile. Whereas outdoor gardens require a lot of prep work and large spaces, you can place your indoor garden anywhere in the home that is most convenient for you. You can also alter the atmosphere of your space to accommodate the plants you will be growing, while outdoor gardens are subject to the weather year-round.

Indoors is the best choice for beginner gardeners as well, increasing your chances at healthy, green plants. Because they are smaller than outdoor gardens, indoor gardens allow you to work on a smaller scale so that the task never becomes overwhelming and you are able to devote adequate attention and care to your plants.

Indoor gardens are ideal for those with physical disabilities or limited physical mobility for the same reasons. They are easily accessible and much easier to care for, enabling individuals to continue to enjoy their favorite pastime in spite of limitations.

Although it may not seem like it, there are limitless possibilities when it comes to indoor gardening. Because indoor gardens give the same output as outdoor gardens, you can grow just about anything that will fit in your home. From fresh fruits and veggies to decorative flowers, your garden will yield whatever your heart desires.

You might think you don't have room for this hobby. But just because you live in an apartment or dorm room doesn't mean you can't enjoy the benefits of gardening. In fact, indoor gardening has many advantages you will soon discover, enabling you to enjoy some of nature's beauty in spite of your limited living conditions.

One of the most popular choices for indoor gardens is the herb garden. This is a favorite among those whose passion is cooking. Fresh and dried herbs are very expensive in grocery stores, yet they are included in the majority of the best recipes. If you want outstanding flavor in your dishes but can't bear to pay the hefty prices, try an indoor herb garden.

It can be as small or extensive as your cooking needs require. Some of the most popular herbs for this kind of indoor garden and used in most recipes include oregano, cilantro, thyme, rosemary, parsley, mint, and basil. This list makes a well-rounded basic garden that should meet all your cooking needs and do well indoors.

Herb gardens can be accommodated even if you have a very compact kitchen. With a little creativity you can hang groups of plants on the wall (preferably one that features ample sunlight) and out of the way. Herbs may be grown in mason jars and attached to a piece of wood that can then be hung on the kitchen wall.

You can even make dried herbs from your plants by bundling 4 to 6 branches together and hanging them upside down in a paper bag. After being stored in a warm, airy room for about a few weeks, you will have plenty of dry herbs to last you a good while.

Your indoor herb garden has the potential to serve more than just culinary purposes. You can also reap the medicinal benefits these plants have to offer. Thyme, mint, lavender, and rosemary are good choices. Lavender, for example, helps soothe stress and headaches and has also been known to promote better sleep. Thyme also helps chase away headaches, however, it can be used as a wash for scabies, soothing insect bites, and for eczema.

Indoor gardens are inexpensive to start and maintain, and with diligent care they can even help you save money long term. Whether you've had to move away from a house with a yard or are just beginning to cultivate your green thumb, an indoor garden will let you discover and enjoy a popular pastime without the outdoor inconveniences.