Growing Basil – Tips on Growing Basil

Friday, December 26th, 2008 at 11:10 am

Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil (or Ocimum basilicum) is an excellent addition to your flourishing herb garden. 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 medical remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.

Old tales-

Growing basil has a special significance in many cultures throughout the world. The people of India swore their oaths in court on basil leaves. To signify love, Italian suitors wore a sprig of basil in their hair when they courted their ladies. The Mexicans believed it would bring back a cheating lover if you walked around carrying basil.

Medicinal use-

There are big health benefits of growing basil. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally packed with vitamin A. The herb is known by herbalists as a ‘cure-all’ for a wide array of ailments, from stomach trouble to headaches. In fact, the list of benefits from this herb proves it so powerful; Basil is considered the “King” of herbs.

Growing Basil-

Growing basil can be childs-play. You can grow basil plants started from seed indoors before transplanting into the garden. It can even be full grown indoors if preferred. If you decide to do this, remember the plant needs sunlight, so a man-made alternative should be used, like fluorescent growing lighting.

Sow the seed in a warm time of year, about an inch apart. When the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be replanted. Make certain you wait until a late frost is no longer a threat.

Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Do not over fertilize because this action diminishes the unique fragrance of the plant.

When re-planting, dig the herbs in at least 1 – 1 feet apart from each other, to ensure appropriate growing space. Growing basil has two main requirements: well draining soil, and a sunny, but damp area.

Prune at least every two weeks to increase the health of the plant. To do this, clip the leaves back, but stop ¼ inch above the node. This is to ensure enough foliage is left for growth to continue. Deadhead any flower stems to make sure the plant stays in production.

Try growing basil near tomato plants. These plants equally need sunlight and above average watering, so having them near each other will be more convenient for the time-pressed gardener. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! Basil is a big help around the kitchen and helps to repel insects in the garden.

Once the basil plant has reached 6″ high, 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 not only adds to your culinary delights, but it is delightful addition in the garden.

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