Question
Hello,

I have two questions.

1.) I am moving into an apartment in Everett, WA that only has windows and a very small patio on the north side of the apartment.  I have always wanted to grow my own herbs and veggies, but since I am on the 4th floor, I am confined to a small covered deck (about 4'X4'). Are there any herbs, veggies that would grow with very little direct sunlight?

2.) For indoor plants, I was thinking about having a few ball topiary shrubs in my kitchen to add some green. Something where the plant is about 6-10" diameter. Are there any shrubs/topiary plants that grow well indoors?

Answer
Hi Rachel,

My expertise is limited to indoor plants, so my knowledge of  vegetable gardening is limited. That said, I do knew that virtually all vegetables that you would be interested in require lots of direct sun for most of the day. You can grow vegetables in lower light, but they will be thinner and weaker and are probably not worth the effort.

You may have some success with herbs such as basil, rosemary and dill. Again, they will not flourish, but you may get enough to use in your cooking and salads.

You didn't mention the available light in your kitchen, so it is hard to say what would work for you. However, unless your kitchen plant is within a couple of feet of a window, it will not do well. Shrubs are outdoor plants and few plant species are grown as indoor topiaries. Your best bet for a topiary would be a Hedera Ivy topiary, but it must be very close to an uncovered window.

I am sorry I don't have more and better options for you, but available light is the key to the success of any plant and apparently the light you have is limited and so, therefore, are your plant options.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com