Growing Basil – Tips on Growing Basil

Monday, December 29th, 2008 at 10:21 am

Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an super way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes. Unknown to most, basil is really a member of the mint family! Although there is a few different varieties of basil, sweet basil is the most popular and well known. When it comes to old age herbal remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.

Old tales-

Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to societies all over the world. Indians swore oaths with basil leaves in court. Italian lovers would wear a piece of basil in their hair when courting ladies. A popular Mexican belief is that carrying basil would return a cheating lover.

Medical uses-

There are big health benefits of growing basil. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally packed with vitamin A. Basil, is a cure-all herb that can treat many disorders and ailments from headaches to indigestion. In fact, the list of benefits from this herb proves it so powerful; Basil is considered the “King” of herbs.

Growing Basil-

Don’t worry, growing basil is a breeze. The seed can be sown indoors, then transplanting outside at a later date. If you lack the space for growing basil outdoors, it can be grown inside. The plant needs plenty of sun to thrive. You can use fluorescent ’grow’ bulbs if there is inadequate lighting in your home.

The seeds should be sown about 1” from each other, in a warm time of year. After a few leaves have grown, the basil can then be re-planted. But, always be sure the last frost has past.

Add a some mulch of about three inches. Organic mulch is an excellent choice. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Do not over fertilize because this action diminishes the unique fragrance of the plant.

Plant the herbs at least 16 – 20 inches apart to grow a good- sized plant. For growing basil, it has essentially 2 requirements, well-drained soil, and a sunny, moist area.

Prune at least every 2 weeks to increase the health of the plant. Clip leaves back to about a quarter inch above a node and leave enough foliage for continued growth. Remove dead heads from flower stems for it to continue in good health.

Try growing basil near tomato plants. These plants equally need sunlight and above average watering, so having them close together will be more convenient for the time-pressed gardener. Just like in your famous spaghetti sauce, these two plants go well together. Basil also acts as a natural insect repellent, either in the home kitchen, or to keep pests away from other plants.

Once the basil plant has reached six inches, you can start to pinch off the top sets of leaves. This herb has been known to reach heights of up to 24 inches. Growing basil is a big benefit to both your garden and your household.

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