Growing Basil - How to Grow Basil

Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an easy 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. When it comes to old age medical remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.


Old tales-

Growing basil has a special significance in many cultures throughout 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.


Medicinal use-

Growing basil can provide major health benefits. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally packed with vitamin A. The herb is sometimes 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-

Don't worry, growing basil is a breeze. You can grow basil plants started from seed inside the house before transplanting into the garden. 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. After a few leaves have grown, the basil can then be re-planted. Make certain you wait until a late frost is no longer a threat.

Add layer of mulch of about three inches. Organic mulch is an excellent choice. 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.

Plant the herbs at least 16 - 20 inches apart to grow a good- sized plant. For growing basil, it has essentially two requirements, well-drained soil, and a sunny, moist area.

Basil should be pruned fortnightly to increase its hardiness. Clip leaves back to about 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 is a good idea when growing basil, to plant it near your tomato vines. Both of these plants require above average sunlight, and watering, so it is convenient to place them close to each other. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! Basil is a big help around the kitchen and helps to repel insects in the garden.

Once the basil plant has reached six inches, you can start to pinch off the top sets of leaves. Basil plants can grow to approximately two feet tall. Growing basil is a big benefit to both your garden and your household.