Growing Basil - How to Grow Basil

Herbs are beneficial in many ways. Growing basil (or Ocimum basilicum) is an excellent addition to your flourishing herb garden. I am pleased to introduce, Basil, a sweet herb, member of the Mint Family. Sweet Basil is the most popular grown basil plant but it grows in a host of other varieties. When it comes to old age herbal remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.


Folklore-

Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to societies all over the world. Indians swore oaths with basil leaves in court. To signify love, Italian suitors wore a sprig of basil in their hair when they courted their ladies. The Mexicans believed it would bring back a cheating lover if you walked around carrying basil.


Medicinal use-

Growing basil can provide major health benefits. The herb is a natural source of beta-carotene, which is packed with Vitamin A. The herb is 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-

Growing basil can be childs-play. The seed can be sown indoors, then transplanting outside at a later date. 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 inadequate lighting in your home.

The seeds should be sown about 1” from each other, in a warm time of year. When the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be replanted. But, always be sure the last frost has past.

Add a some mulch of about three inches. Organic mulch is an excellent choice. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Do not over fertilize because this action diminishes the unique fragrance of the plant.

When re-planting, dig the herbs in at least 1 – 1 feet apart from each other, to ensure appropriate growing space. Growing basil has two main requirements: well draining soil, and a sunny, but damp area.

Basil should be pruned fortnightly to increase its hardiness. To do this, clip the leaves back, but stop ¼ inch above the node. This is to ensure enough foliage is left for growth to continue. Remove dead heads from flower stems for it to continue in good health.

Try growing basil near tomato plants. These plants equally need sunlight and above average watering, so having them close together will be more convenient for the time-pressed gardener. Just like in your famous spaghetti sauce, these two plants go well together. Basil also acts as a natural insect repellent, either in the home kitchen, or to keep pests away from other plants.

Once the basil plant has reached 6" high, you can start to pinch off the top sets of leaves. This herb has been known to reach heights of up to 24 inches. Growing basil not only adds to your culinary delights, but it is delightful addition in the garden.