Basil Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Lamiaceae
Plant Type:
Annual

Square Foot Spacing:

4
Typical Season:
Warm season
Typical Zones Grown In:
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Growing Difficulty:
Easy

Basil is a popular herb with a fragrant aroma and a sweet, slightly peppery taste. It is widely used in cooking, particularly in Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, and is also known for its medicinal properties. Basil can be grown easily and organically in a variety of settings, including in containers or in the ground. It prefers warm temperatures and well-draining soil, and can be started from seed or propagated from cuttings. Basil requires consistent moisture and regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth, and should be harvested frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, and are typically added to dishes at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma.

How to Grow Basil Organically

Basil can be grown indoors or outdoors, and it prefers warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight. Here is a brief guide on how to organically grow basil:

  1. Choose a sunny location: Basil requires at least six hours of sunlight per day, so choose a sunny location in your garden or on your balcony.
  2. Prepare the soil: Basil prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
  3. Plant the seeds: Sow the seeds directly in the soil after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart.
  4. Water regularly: Basil requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
  5. Harvest regularly: Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from flowering. Pinch off the leaves just above a set of leaves, and avoid cutting off more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Direct Sow, Start Indoor
When to Direct Sow:
June, May
When to Start Indoors:
January, March, February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Sprouting Time:
5-10 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

15-25
Depth:
1cm (½”) deep
Spacing (cm):
4-8" apart
Row Spacing (cm):
18" apart
Sun Exposure:
Part Shade, Full Sun
Maturity Time:
30-40 days
When To Harvest:
January, March, February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
How to Harvest:
Tear basil rather than chop with a knife because when you chop you will notice the basil going dark. The oil stays in the leaf and does not properly flavour your food. Try to add just before serving so as to get the full aroma and effect. Cooking for any length tends to make the minty side of basil come to the forefront. For a large harvest, you can cut off as much as a half the plant at once.

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Leaves and stems
Potential Health Benefits:
Stress Reduction, Depression Fighter, Heart Health, Fights Diabetes, Cancer-Fighting , Brain Health, Disease Fighter, Repels Insects

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Tomato, Oregano, Pepper
What Plants to Avoid:
Common Pests:
Common Disease:
Bonus Grow Tips:
Grow basil indoors for year round production if you have adequate lighting.

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