What is Basil?
Despite its popularity in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, basil is actually native to the South Pacific islands and southern Asia. It is a member of the mint family and grows as an annual. It is also quick-growing ā fromĀ seed to harvestĀ in just about 3 ā 4 weeks ā which makes this a rewarding herb to grow! If you havenāt grown herbs before, basil is a great one to start with.
Basil Plant Care
Tip 1.Ā Water consistently and regularly. Keep soil moist for optimal growth. Water early in the mornings for best results. If you areĀ in a hotter regionĀ or having a heat wave, adding mulch around the plant can help keep moisture in.
Tip 2.Ā Harvest often to encourage new growth.
Tip 3.Ā If a basil plant starts to flower, the basil leaves will start losing flavor and the plant will stop growing. Removing the flowers will do the trick though, and that sweet basil flavor will return in a couple of days.
How to HarvestĀ Basil
- Start picking the leaves of basil as soon as the plants are 6 to 8 inchesĀ tall.
- Once temperatures hit 80Ā°F (27Ā°C), basil will really start leafingĀ out.
- Harvest in the early morning, when leaves are at theirĀ juiciest.
- Make sure to pick the leaves regularly to encourage growth throughout theĀ summer.
- Even if you donāt need to leaves, pick them to keep the plant going. Store them for laterĀ use!
- If you pick regularly, twelve basil plants can produce 4 to 6 cups of leaves perĀ week.
REMINDER: Trim away flowers immediately
Trim away flower buds before they bloom. Ā If you want to keep growing basil, you have to prevent your plant from flowering. Once a basil plant flowers, it will not produce any more leaves. Trim away any buds you see on your plant before they have the chance to blossom
How to StoreĀ Basil
- The best method for storing basil is freezing. Freezing will prevent the plant from losing a good portionĀ of its flavor. To quick-freeze basil, package whole or chopped leavesĀ in airtight, resealable plastic bags, then place in theĀ freezer.
- Another storage method is drying the basil (although some of the flavor will be lost). Pinch off the leaves at the stem and place them in a well-ventilated and shady area. After 3 to 4 days, if the plants are not completely dry, place them in the oven on the lowest heat setting with the door slightly open. Remember to turn the leaves (for equal drying) and check them frequently.Ā See more about drying basil, tomatoes, and paprika.
Common Basil Questions
How long does a basil plant last?
If properly cared for, basil can last for anywhere from 4 ā 6 months. Typically, plants in posts will live closer to 4 months, whereas plants in the ground could live up to 6 months.
Does basil need direct sunlight?
Basil is a warm-weather plant that thrives on full sun. Malaysian sun can be quite overpowering if not acclimatized. Partial Shade or by the window light is good for growth.
Why is my basil plant drooping?
The most common cause of a drooping basil plant is not enough water. Basil loves evenly moist soil.