Herbs
How to Grow Fresh Basil
By
Aug 8, 2005 - 1:02:00 PM

There is a good reason why basil is one of the most popular herbs in the culinary world. It has a deliciously light spicy flavor with a hint of mint, and it is extremely versatile. Basil has been used in anything from ice cream to dozens of kinds of Italian pastas. It is also an essential ingredient in many Asian and other ethnic dishes. There are over 40 varieties available with a great diversity of shapes, colors, scents, and sizes. Moreover, it grows well both indoors and out, and requires very little effort to get started.

In most of the U.S., basil (Ocimum basilicum) is considered an annual herb. It is actually native to Asia and parts of Indian, where it grows as a perennial. Not surprisingly, basil is a member of the large mint family (Lamiaceae). This means that in addition to its delightful flavor, it also known to have a soothing effect on the stomach.

Basils prefer moist, well-drained soil with a pH of around 6.0. You can grow basil easily from seed or buy a ready-to-plant starter plant from your local nursery. If you’re going to grow basil outdoors, wait for the last frost to pass before planting the seeds or starter plants. Plant the seeds in very rich moist soil about twice as deep as the seed is long. You can also start your basil indoors in a shallow flat. Place the seeds in the flat with a spacing of about ½ an inch. Planting depth should be no more than two times the size of the seed. Keep your soil nice and moist and fairly cool. The seeds should germinate in less than a week.

Transplant them to 2 inch plastic pots when they have 2 pairs of true leaves. When the roots fill out the 2 inch pot, they’ll be ready to transplant to your garden or to a larger pot. If you transplant your basil outdoors, choose a very sunny spot and keep the soil nice and moist. Space your basils about 12 inches, and at least 24 inches between the rows. Potted basil works well both indoors and out, just remember to have a rich, moist soil and plenty of sun.

You basil will respond well to frequent pruning and you should pinch back the flowers as they appear if you are growing basil for culinary purposes. If you’re harvesting your basil for culinary purposes, cut back the foliage about 5 inches above the ground just before the flowers appear. If you cut your basil too low, it may have trouble regenerating.

With proper watering, soil, and lighting conditions, your basil should thrive. However, you should be on the lookout for some pests and diseases that may attack your plants. Fusarium, powdery mildew, and the Japanese beetle may affect your basil, especially if you’re growing a large crop.

For more information on growing basil plus information on other kinds of herbs, see this site from Ohio State University.

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