Growing Basil - How to Grow Basil

Herbs can help life in many ways. Growing basil (or Ocimum basilicum) is an excellent addition to your flourishing herb garden. Unknown to most, basil is actually 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-

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. 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.


Medicinal use-

There are big health benefits of growing basil. The herb is a natural source of beta-carotene, which is 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-

Growing basil can be childs-play. You can grow basil plants started from seed inside the house before transplanting into the garden. 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.

Sow the seed in a warm time of year, about 1" 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. Watering should be done one day per week, before noon. 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.

Basil should be pruned fortnightly to increase its hardiness. Clip leaves back to around 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.

It's a good idea when growing basil, to plant it near your tomato vines. 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 2 plants go well together. Basil is a big help around the kitchen and helps to repel insects in the garden.

After 6” of growth, the top leaves are ready to be removed. 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.