How to Cultivate Basil

Thai basil is used to make flavored vinegar.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum), an herb prized for its flavorful foliage, is native to the Mediterranean. Widely used in preparing many ethnic dishes, basil adds sweetness and flavor to pesto, sauces and salad dressings. There are many different types of basil. Sweet basil, the most commonly known type of basil, is a staple in gourmet kitchens. Lemon, apple, cinnamon, holy, Thai, Mexican and clove varieties present distinct flavors and crisp, sweet scents. One of the most commonly used culinary herbs, basil is easy to grow in the home garden or sunny indoor location.

Things You'll Need

• Organic compost
• Basil seeds or seedlings
• Potting soil
• Sand
• Clay pots or containers

Instructions

1. Select a planting location in full sun. While basil will tolerate partial shade, full sun and warm days are required for the plant to reach its full potential. In an outdoor setting, many varieties of basil can reach 3 to 6 feet at maturity. Basil grows best in daytime temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures in the 50s. Basil is a tender annual easily killed by the slightest hint of frost.

2. Provide nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of equal parts of organic compost, potting soil and sand. (Do not use sand from an ocean beach, as it will contain salt that will damage the plant.) Fill growing pots or containers with the potting mixture. If you plant basil directly into the ground, till the soil well to remove rocks and roots. Work in organic compost and sand.

3. Sprinkle basil seed lightly on the surface of the soil. Press down lightly and cover with a light dusting of sieved soil. Water well and keep the soil uniformly moist until seeds have germinated. Basil may also be started from cuttings that have been placed in water until visible roots have developed. Protect from frost.

4. Thin plants to 8 to 12 inches apart. Do not fertilize. Keep the soil moist. Water the plants in the morning so they can quickly dry in the morning sunshine.

Tips & Warnings

• Water basil with stale coffee. Sprinkle coffee grounds on top of the soil at the base of the plant. Coffee, rich in nitrogen, will encourage growth.

• Plant basil in large containers or clay pots, rather than directly in the ground. Keeping the plant raised off the ground and contained helps prevent slug infestations.

References

• North Carolina State University Extension: Basil
• Iowa State University Extension: Growing & Using Basil