Knowledgebase
Assistance in getting started #892901
Asked February 20, 2025, 5:48 PM EST
Nicollet County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi Chris,
Welcome to Minnesota! You might be able to grow a few greens in a bright window, but for many vegetables brighter light is needed. Consider buying a plant light for these light-hungry plants.
Herbs, greens like lettuce and arugula and radishes will grow inside. If you can find a small patio tomato and are willing to hand-pollinate the flowers, you may get some fruit. Tomatoes need additional light, and while greens will tolerate cooler temperatures herbs and tomatoes want warmth. Water only when the soil is dry or you may develop rot and bug problems.
Small citrus plants like lemons can be grown as houseplants. Here's more information:
https://extension.umn.edu/houseplants/growing-citrus-indoors
Here's some helpful web pages on vegetables:
https://www.uvm.edu/extension/news/growing-greens-indoors-winter
https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-vegetables-indoors-1403183
The latter page suggests trying potatoes, which seems like stretch to me. But you can try anything you want!
Hope this helps. Good luck.