Growing Basil - Tips on Growing Basil

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Growing Basil - Tips on Growing Basil

Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

Herbs can help life in many ways. Growing basil (or Ocimum basilicum) is an excellent addition to your flourishing herb garden. I am pleased to introduce, Basil, a sweet herb, member of the Mint Family. Sweet Basil is the most popular grown basil plant but it grows in a host of other varieties. When it comes to old age medical remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.

Folklore-

Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to societies all over 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. 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. There are so many benefits derived from basil, that it is known as the ‘King of Herbs’.

How to Grow Basil-

Growing basil can be childs-play. The seed can be sown indoors, then transplanting outside at a later date. It can even be full grown indoors if preferred. The plant needs plenty of sun to thrive. You can use fluorescent ’grow’ bulbs if there is not enough lighting in your home.

The seeds should be sown about 1” from each other, in a warm time of year. When the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be replanted. But, always make sure the last frost has past.

Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Never use too much fertilizer, as this can remove the unique odor from the herb.

When re-planting, dig the herbs in at least 1 – 1 feet apart from each other, to ensure appropriate growing space. 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. 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 keep the plant in production.

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. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! 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 not only adds to your culinary delights, it is delightful addition in the garden.

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