Richters.com has a wealth of information on growing herbs. I found this (one of many articles) in their Q&A section by searching "indoors". I think it's gonna answer many of your questions.

Here is a link that might be useful: Richters Q&A

Speaking of herbs, is lemon balm perennial around here? I got some at an exchange the other night and was wondering if i'd have to bring it in or not.

Lemon Balm overwinters here for me. I don't see why it wouldn't for you. I'd only bring some in if you want to use it.

Syreeta

Thanks, Syreeta! :)

I do cover my lemon balm with straw, but I don't really think it's necessary. I have to dig out clumps of it every year, so the plants don't get too big, and they still end up close to 3 feet across/2feet tall.
Connie

You can dry the leaves now- and have tea later from your lemon balm- monarda- mints and raspberry leaves even! I always harvest the chocolate mint and monarda- I think I will gather from more of the mints this year as I harvest other herbs.
A good way to extend many fresh herbs is to take cuttings and place in water in a sunny window- I have had several root- but not all make it through the winter- My house is neither bright or warm enough...

Good idea, Julie! I'd thought about drying some monarda leaves earlier this summer, but then forgot about it. I'll be sure to do it now. Earl Grey tea is my favourite!

Hey, I wish I'd known Lemon Balm was hardy! I think its too late to dig it out of the container and plant it now, so I'll pot it up and bring it in. I'll definately plant it out in the spring.
Interesting about monarda being earl grey tea...I think this was talked about earlier this spring and I had forgot about it. My monarda came up but had so much winter kill that it just stayed stunted and kinda spread out. Same with my ginger mint so I didn't bother with mint jelly this year..my pork chops will miss it dearly :^(

Thanks for the link, Pudge.

Toots