Growing Basil – How to Grow Basil
Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an super way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes. Unknown to most, basil is actually a member of the mint family! Sweet Basil is the most popular grown basil plant known but it grows in a host of other varieties. This herb is well known for flavoring foods and in its long past has been used for folk remedies.
Old tales-
Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to cultures 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 herb is a natural source of beta-carotene, which is 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 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 not enough 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. But, always be sure the last frost has past.
Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Watering should be done one day per week, before noon. 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. 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. Clip leaves back to around a quarter inch above a node and leave enough foliage for continued growth. Deadhead any flower stems to keep the plant in production.
It is 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. 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.
After 6” of growth, the top leaves are ready to be clipped. 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.
