My first attempt at growing herbs under lights over the winter, has only had limited success. But it’s all a learning experience, and I expect to get better at it over subsequent years. Of the herbs grown from seed, only the basil looks good, with so so cilantro and parsley that sprouted and then failed to thrive. The plants repotted from mostly perennials that were growing outside at least extended the season, but only the thyme and marjoram are still going strong. I gave up on the oregano today, and the clumps of chives and parley are still living but not producing new growth. I also seem to have brought inside some little bitty annoying flying insects, which I think must be “fungus gnats”. Unfortunately, they seem to be thriving just fine. Live and learn.

I did get enough cilantro for tonight’s citrus chicken thighs, and included in the marinade, some lemon balm that had been frozen over the summer. Basil went into a corn dish and chives from the freezer flavored a mix of black and pink beans. I have no problem with reaching for the purchased dried herbs and spices from the good ‘ol spice rack, but it’s nice to add a fresh (or fresh frozen) taste of something home grown.