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Published: Mar 3, 2022 · Modified: Apr 2, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn a small commission from visited links at no additional cost to you. ·

How to Grow Basil: Planting, Growing & Harvesting

Basil is a versatile, aromatic herb that's popular in many cuisines and easy to grow in home gardens. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about planting, growing, and harvesting basil, ensuring a bountiful crop of this flavorful herb.

how to grow basil
Read Next
  • Part 1: Getting Started
  • Part 2: Planting Basil
  • Part 3: Caring for Basil Plants
  • Part 4: Pests and Diseases
  • Part 5: Harvesting Basil
  • Part 6: Growing Basil in Containers
  • Conclusion
  • 💬 Community

Part 1: Getting Started

Choose the Right Basil Variety

There are numerous basil varieties, each with unique flavors, colors, and growth habits. Popular types include sweet basil, Genovese basil, Thai basil, purple basil, and lemon basil. Choose a variety that suits your culinary needs and preferences.

Select the Best Location

Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily and has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Prepare the Soil

Basil prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility.

Part 2: Planting Basil

Planting From Seed

a. Indoor sowing

Start basil seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix, covering them with ¼ inch of soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, around 70°F (21°C), until germination occurs, typically in 5-10 days.

b. Direct sowing

Direct sow basil seeds outdoors once the soil temperature reaches 60°F (16°C) and all danger of frost has passed. Space seeds about ¼ inch deep and 12 inches apart in rows.

Transplanting Seedlings

Transplant indoor-grown seedlings outdoors when they have at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed. Harden off seedlings gradually over a week, then transplant them 12-18 inches apart in well-prepared soil.

basils

Part 3: Caring for Basil Plants

Watering

Basil requires consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering. Water plants deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist without becoming waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Basil benefits from occasional feeding. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, following the package instructions for the correct dosage.

Mulching

Spread a 2-inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark, around the base of basil plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning

Regularly pinch off the tips of basil stems to encourage bushy growth and prevent plants from becoming leggy. Remove any flowers that form to prolong the harvest season.

Part 4: Pests and Diseases

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can damage basil plants. Remove them with a strong spray of water, or use insecticidal soap as a last resort.

Japanese Beetles

Japanese beetles feed on basil leaves, causing significant damage. Hand-pick beetles from plants and drop them into soapy water to control infestations.

Fusarium Wilt

Fusarium wilt is a soilborne fungal disease that causes basil plants to wilt and die. Plant resistant varieties, rotate planting locations, and remove infected plants to prevent their spread.

Downy Mildew

Downy mildew is a fungal disease that appears as yellow patches on basil leaves. Improve air circulation, and water at the base of plants, and apply a fungicide if needed.

harvesting basil

Part 5: Harvesting Basil

When to Harvest

Begin harvesting basil when plants reach 6-8 inches tall and have at least three sets of leaves. Harvest in the morning for the best flavor and to minimize stress on the plants.

How to Harvest

To harvest basil, snip or pinch off leaves or entire stems just above a leaf node or pair of leaves. This encourages new growth and maintains a bushy plant.

Frequent Harvesting

Regularly harvesting basil promotes a continuous supply of leaves throughout the growing season. Aim to harvest at least once a week to keep plants productive.

Storing Fresh Basil

Store freshly harvested basil in a glass of water on the countertop, or wrap the stems in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Preserving Basil

Preserve excess basil by drying, freezing, or making pesto. Dry leaves in a dehydrator or hang them upside-down in a well-ventilated area. Freeze whole leaves or chopped basil in ice cube trays with olive oil or water.

Part 6: Growing Basil in Containers

Choosing a Container

Grow basil in containers that are at least 8 inches in diameter and have drainage holes. Larger pots are ideal for multiple plants or large varieties like Genovese basil.

Potting Mix

Use a well-draining, high-quality potting mix for basil in containers. A mix containing peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite promotes healthy root growth and prevents waterlogging.

Watering Container-Grown Basil

Container-grown basil often requires more frequent watering than garden plants. Check the soil moisture daily, and water deeply when the top inch feels dry.

Fertilizing

Fertilize container-grown basil more frequently than garden plants, as nutrients are depleted more quickly. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks, following package instructions.

Overwintering Basil Indoors

Bring container-grown basil indoors before the first frost to extend the growing season. Place plants in a bright, south-facing window, and maintain consistent moisture and humidity.

Conclusion

Growing basil is an enjoyable and rewarding endeavor for gardeners of all skill levels. By following this comprehensive guide on planting, growing, and harvesting basil, you'll be well-equipped to cultivate a bountiful crop of this delicious and versatile herb.

Enjoy the fresh flavors of homegrown basil in your favorite dishes or preserve it for future use, and experience the satisfaction of nurturing this fragrant herb from seed to harvest.

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