Basil
Ocimum Basilicum
History
It is belived that Basil was first cultivated in India over 5,000 years ago where for its use in medicinal and religious practices. It had made its way to Egypt about 4,000 years ago where they had used it for embalming and religious offerings. While some types of Basil are used strictly for religious purposes such as holy basil there are many types grom for culinary use as well such as Lemon Basil, Thai Basil and Genovese Basil.
Growing conditions
Sunlight
Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Shade can help prevent bolting.
Temperature Range
50F-75F.
Soil Conditions
Loamy soil.
Water
1 to 2 inches of water per week.
Water the plants regularly keeping soil moist not soggy.
Nutrients
10-10-5
Adding a nitrogen rich compost can help encourage growth
pH
6.0-7.0
Plant care
Sowing Seeds
Wait for warmer temperature to sow seeds preferable above 60f and the risk of night time frost has passed. straw can help retain heat and moisture in the ealry stages of life
Germination
Seeds can take 5 to 14 days to germinate
When the seeds have sprouted and are above the straw thin the plants out giving them 6 to 8 inches of spacing for small plants and 10 to 12 inches for larger plants. Water around the plant to help the roots establish keeping the soil moist
Pruning
Removing the top of the plant after the first several sets of leaves can help encourage bushier grow and more leave production. Remove any dead leaves from the plant and scrap them.
Harvest
Avoid harvesting more then you need at once and never taking more then a third of the plant at a time. Thin out the leaves to help with air flow and remove the tops on the largest branches to maintain a bushy apperance.
Growing Tips
Remove any flower buds before they begin to change the taste of basil.
Basil can be grown indoors in a container and has a quick harvest. Using an Aerogarden or a Lettuce Grow Farmstand to grow indoors can keep the plants stress to a minimum.
Garden plotter quick facts
Spacing
10" to 16"
Water needs
Moderate
Sunlight
Full Sun
A warm-season crop producing juicy red fruits.
Available through local listings
Farmers market
- Basil
