Question
I am working on a project with my class. We are going to be growing string beans indoors, in small pots and they will be kept in the school kitchen area where they will receive plenty of light and is warm. There are other plants there also that thrive but they are not veggies. We placed 2-3 seeds in each pot in case one does not take. How can I make this project a success and how often should we water them? How much water is needed each time I water the plants?

Answer
When growing vegetables indoors, the key is strong light, consistent moisture, and a good root system.

Be sure to place the plants in either a southeast-facing window or under fluorescent lighting. The plants will need a minimum of 8 hours of light per day. If you do use fluorescent lighting, make sure they are no further than 3" from the lights.

Do not over water. Most plants only need 1.5" of water per week. When growing indoors, the soil should be moist, not drenched. It is best to water deeply once or twice per week rather than small amounts daily. Shallow watering causes the roots to reach for the surface rather than down. The result is always a weak and spindly plant. Therefore, always water deeply to the point you have seepage from the bottom of the pot.

Next, you should fertilize the plant once every two weeks. For indoor plants, use a solution that is diluted to 1/2 the recommended amount on the package. Any water-soluble fertilizer will suffice.

Finally, be sure to transplant the plant every 2 months to a slightly larger pot. This will keep the plant from becoming root-bound. Plants left in the same container while still growing will become stunted. That is why you should increase the size of the pot by 2" each time you transplant.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again should you have any other questions.

Regards,

Mike