Basil – Growing Guide

Overview

• Name: Basil
• Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
• Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
• Native to: Basil is native to tropical regions spanning from Central Africa to India and Southeast Asia, and has been cultivated for thousands of years.

Description

Basil (Ocimum basilicum), is an annual or perennial plant grown for its aromatic leaves which are used as a herb. The leaves are bright green, smooth, oval-shaped,, opposite (paired) in arrangement and vary in size. Stems are square-shaped, characteristic of the mint family, and may become woody as the plant matures. Basil flowers are small, white, or lavender, arranged in terminal spikes, which are flower clusters that form at the tops of each of the branches.. The plant produces tiny black seeds once the flowers are pollinated.

Basil plants are often grown as annuals but may survive for several seasons with some care, especially when grown in a warm, protected location near a sun-facing wall.

There are many varieties/species of basil, such as the common sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Anise’) pictured above, Greek basil, perennial basil (Ocimum gratissimum), lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Lemon’) and holy basil (Ocimum sanctum).

Most basil plants typically range in height from about 30–60cm (12–24 in) when fully mature, but some basil species, such as perennial basil, can grow to 2m tall and 1m wide under favourable conditions.

Interesting Facts

• Basil is not only valued for its culinary uses but also has a rich history of medicinal and cultural significance.
• Basil is known as the “King of Herbs” due to its global culinary use. The name “basil” is derived from the Greek word “basilikon,” meaning “royal” or “kingly.” This word, in turn, comes from the Greek “basileus,” which translates to “king.” Basil has historically been associated with royalty, and it was considered a sacred herb.
• There are many varieties of basil, each with its own unique flavor profile, such as sweet basil, lemon basil, and Thai basil.
• Sweet basil is an annual plant but most other basils are perennial, and can survive many years in warmer climates, greenhouses, protected places in the garden near sun facing walls, or even indoors near a bright sunny window.
• In addition to being a popular culinary herb, basil also has natural insect-repelling properties and is often planted near doors and windows to deter flies and mosquitoes.
• Basil leaves contain essential oils that are responsible for its distinct aroma and flavour, which intensifies when the leaves are crushed.
• This herb is considered sacred in some cultures and is used in various religious ceremonies and rituals, such as Tulsi or Holy Basil in Indian culture

Basic Growing Information

• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial sun
• Water Requirements: Medium
• Soil Types and Properties: Rich, fertile soil with good drainage
• Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Planting

Basil is a warm-season crop. Plant when the soil temperatures are consistently above 18°C (65°F).

Basil seeds may be started indoors by sowing them in seedling trays or pots containing potting mix, provided the temperature is maintained between 15.5 and 27°C (60–80°F). The seeds typically germinate within 5 days if kept at a temperature of 21°C (70°F). Once the basil seedlings reach 6–8 weeks of age, they are ready to be transplanted into the garden..

• Best Time to Plant: Spring, two weeks after the last frost
  • Climates with freezing winters: After the last frost in spring
  • Climates with milder winters: Early spring to summer

Note: Check gardening calendars for the best planting times in your location.

• Spacing: 20-30 cm (8-12 in) between plants and 45-60 cm (18-24 in) between rows
• Seed Sowing Method: Sow seeds into seed tray and then transplant seedlings
• Seed Sowing Depth: 0.5 cm (¼ in) deep
• Time to Harvest: 10-12 weeks when planted from seed
• Mature Height/Spread: 30-60 cm (12-24 in) in height, 30-45 cm (12-18 in) spread
• Grown From: Seeds or cuttings
• Pot Size for Container Growing: Minimum of 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter

Care and Maintenance

• Watering Tips: Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Pruning: Pinch off flower buds to encourage bushier growth and prolong the harvest.
• Support: Basil generally does not require staking unless grown in windy conditions.

Growing Difficulty

• Easy to Grow

Growing Tips

• Pinch off the top growth regularly to encourage branching and prevent flowering, which can result in bitter-tasting leaves.
• Mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Basil is a warm-season herb that thrives best in regions where daytime temperatures consistently exceed 21°C (70°F) and nighttime temperatures remain above 10°C (50°F). It’s very sensitive to frost and will need protected if a late cold spell is forecast.
• Like most fragrant herbs, basil requires approximately 6–8 hours of sunlight daily to fully develop its concentration of aromatic oils and full flavor. Additionally, it benefits from some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat.

Companion Plants

• Good companion plants include: Tomatoes, peppers, oregano, marigold
• Avoid planting near: Rue, fennel, and common sage

Common Pests and Diseases

• Pests: Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
  • Prevention and control methods: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
• Diseases: Basil is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and Fusarium wilt.
  • Prevention and control methods: Plant in well-drained soil, space plants properly for good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.

Harvesting

• Harvest Time: Basil leaves can begin to be harvested as needed once the plants reaches 15-20cm (6-8 inches) in height.
• Harvesting Tips: Snip off individual leaves or cut stems just above a pair of leaves to encourage regrowth. Harvest leaves regularly to keep plants productive and prevent them from going to seed. Also pinch off the leaves from the tips of the stems to encourage more branching.

Propagation

• Produce New Plants From: Seeds or stem cuttings

Culinary Uses

• Fresh basil is widely used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, particularly for pesto, salads, soups, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and as a garnish for various dishes.
• Basil leaves are used fresh or dried to flavour meats, fish, salads, and sauces, while basil tea is a stimulant.

In conclusion, basil is a versatile and aromatic herb that can enhance any garden or kitchen. It requires minimal effort to grow and is excellent for adding fresh flavors to your meals. Regular harvesting will keep your plants productive and provide a steady supply of basil throughout the growing season.

Please feel free to add any growing tips in the comments below, and also include your climate/hardiness zone if it’s helpful.