The Beginner Herb Garden : How to Grow Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a uniquely scented garden herb that is predominantly grown for culinary use. The key requirement to growing basil is to be able to provide full sun for at least six hours a day. Other than its need for light, Basil can be cultivated in a variety of ways including outdoor/indoor herb gardens, container growing and in hydroponic systems. The beginner herb garden should be stocked with basil!

Why Grow Basil?

·         No matter what variety you choose to cultivate, the rewards will be endless with the amount of culinary uses Basil provides. Leaves are harvested and used fresh or dried for culinary uses. Sweet basil is very popular in Italian cuisine while varieties such as Holy Basil are used in Asian cuisine.

·         Essential Oils can be harvested from the basil leaves. These oils can be used in the production of candles, soaps, incense and can even be used in aromatherapy.

·         Basil is easily cultivated. Basil is a favorite among apartment gardeners because of its ability to thrive when planted in containers. A couple basil plants in a south facing window will bring a great harvest to your table anytime of the year.

·         Did I mention all the fresh pesto you could ask for!

 How to Grow Basil:

1.    If you're an outdoor gardener, you can start your seeds indoors before the last frost for transplanting or sow the seeds in your garden after all threats of frost have passed, thinning to one plant every 6-8 inches. If you are an indoor gardener or would just like to grow basil in a container, here is the easiest way to get the seeds started. In a small plastic cup, 2-3 basil seeds are sown directly on top of your favorite seed starter or potting soil. Place a Ziploc bag over the top of the bag to create a micro-environment for your seeds. Since basil seeds need warmth and light to germinate, a warm window seal is perfect for starting your seeds. While you wait for the seeds to germinate, keep the soil moist but not too saturated.

2.    You should start to see tiny seedlings emerge in 4-10 days normally. Once emerged, they will need at least six hours of full light a day, whether it is a well-lit window seal or artificial grow lights. When the seedlings have reached a height of 1-2 inches, thin to one basil plant per cup. After a couple weeks from sprouting, your basil plant will need to be transplanted into a larger container or the garden.

3.    Once planted into its final spot, basil is undemanding. Basil tends to prefer a moist soil that is allowed to dry out a little. Excessive watering will saturate the soil and create unfavorable conditions for growing basil. Although not necessary, Basil will greatly appreciate a watering with compost tea every couple weeks. The extra nitrogen will stimulate and increase leaf production.

4.    Here's a great tip for extending the harvest season for your basil: Once a basil plant starts to flower, its energy is focused on flowers and not the leaves. To keep leaf production steady, prolong flowering by pinching off flower buds as they form.

Keep it Simple, Keep it Fresh. Try some Basil in your garden today!