How To Grow Basil

Environment

Basil is a very easy plant to grow and can thrive in a variety of different conditions with minimal maintenance. Basil can be grown in both a pot or cultivated directly in the ground in your backyard garden. Like other plants, basil will usually have the best results when grown in nutrient rich and pH balanced soil that is kept relatively moist. The addition of fertilizer is an added bonus that can enhance the growth of the basil.

If you are growing your basil in a pot, many of the good practices of growing potted plants will still apply to basil. Thus, having good water drainage to prevent the roots from rotting and plenty of space for the roots to spread are two important points. If the basil is to be grown in soil, it is of course prudent to clear the area of weeds. Whether you are planting them in the ground or growing them in pots, keep in mind that basil is a warm weather and sun loving plant, so be sure to ensure that they get at least 6-8 hours of sunlight and are in a environment that stays above 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

From Seed or Seedlings?

Most common varieties of basil plants is usually available for purchase in one of three forms: seeds, seedlings/cuttings, and matured plants. As mentioned before, basil is relatively cheap and easy for gardeners of all experience levels to grow and cultivate. However, seedlings and mature plants are easier for inexperience gardeners to handle. Basil can also generally be easily transplanted with minimal fuss.

Planting Basil Seeds

Seeds should be sown approximately 2 inches apart at a depth of about 1-2 inches from the soil surface. After planting the seeds should be watered until the soil is moist.