Basil is considered the king of culinary herbs. It is frequently used in noodles, soups, and sauces. It also makes a great pesto-type dish and marinade for chicken or fish. Basil’s flavor can vary depending on its genetic makeup, growing conditions, and how it is used. Growing cool basil is a rewarding experience that you will enjoy from start to finish. Before you buy basil plants or seeds, learn about them first!
Table of Contents
Temperature Required for Cool Basil:
Basil plants struggle in warm temperatures and high humidity levels. They thrive in well-drained soil with good drainage. So plant them in a container garden by submerging the entire surface of the root ball into the planting mix before filling it up with rich potting soil. In containers, place basil plants in a cool area with bright light without direct sunlight. It is a myth that basil plants require lots of sun. If you are growing cool basil indoors, the ideal temperature range is between 50-75 degrees F with less than 60% humidity levels. Many people will actually be able to grow basil in a sunny area that is between 60-70 degrees F. However, make sure there is no direct sunlight shining on your plants if you decide to grow them outdoors in a very sunny area.
Growing Instructions:
When growing cool basil, water the plant as soon as the top of the soil feels dry and don’t wait for it to wilt! Over-watering your plants can lead to root rot so check the top of the soil often. It is best to water your basil plants every other day. Avoid overwatering because it can lead to root rot. If you are growing basil plants outdoors in the ground, water them once a week approximately 10 minutes after sundown so the plants will have all night to dry out before morning.
The easiest way to water your basil plants if you are growing them indoors or in a container garden is by using a light mist spray bottle several times a day as needed to lightly water the soil without disturbing the roots. If you are growing your basil plants outdoors, use a sprinkler to water the soil. Keep this watering method to once a week or every 10-14 days.
When growing basil outdoors in your garden, you can start harvesting them once the plants have about 4-5 sets of leaves. Basil plants can be harvested year round but it is best to harvest them in the early morning hours when the flowers have not yet opened. Harvest the entire plant and use it for your cooking needs as soon as possible because basil loses its flavor quickly after it is harvested. Do not place the plants back in the soil to grow new plants because it is best to harvest a lot of basil in one year’s time. When growing cool basil outdoors, herbicides will not be needed because the basil plants are perennials that will survive well without being sprayed.
How to Control Pests and Diseases?
To control pests and diseases that attack basil plants, do not plant them in the same area every year. Try to rotate where you plant your herbs every year or two. Also, make sure you are not using any chemicals from the garden store on your basil plants. Because they can be harmful if ingested by children and pets who may play with or eat them. However, it is okay to use organic plant sprays on your basil plants: such as vinegar and oils. These organic plant sprays should not kill your basil plants. Because they will be diluted with the water used for irrigation. Try to use only organic plant sprays and never use any chemical sprays on your basil plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is basil cool or warm season?
Basil is a cool season crop that is most well-known to be used in Italian foods. However, basil can stay fresh year round when you grow cool basil indoors or when you grow cool basil outdoors.
Can you plant basil seeds outdoors or do they only need to be planted indoors?
Basil plants can be grown indoors or outdoors. They can also be planted in a container garden with a large pot. And placed on any outdoor patio with plenty of light exposure, or in an area that receives full sunlight.
Is basil plant poisonous?
It is extremely rare for basil to be poisonous due to the fact that its flavor is so delicious. If any child or pet ingests basil, make sure to call the emergency veterinarian immediately. If you have a pet that is experiencing a seizure, place basil leaves in his mouth so he will chew on them. This can help reduce the symptoms of a seizure.
What is basil Spice good for?
Basil is the king of herbs and is frequently used in salads, sauces, and spaghetti sauces. Their leaves are also used in pesto-type recipes such as pesto sauce and marinades. It can also be added to bread and dressings.
What is the best way to grow basil?
Basil needs a steady amount of water but not too much after the top of the soil feels dry. You will want to water your basil about every 7-10 days or when it dries out completely during the day.
Can you grow basil indoors?
Basil can be grown indoors as long as they are in a well-drained container with no direct sunlight.
How many basil plants should I grow?
You can grow 1-2 plants indoors or 6-12 plants outdoors. You will want to plant your basil in a location where it gets full sunlight and the ideal temperature is between 65-75 degrees F.
Conclusion
There are many different types of basil plants you can grow and they will all produce a variety of their own unique flavors. Some flavors you can expect to grow them include lemon, sweet, licorice, cinnamon, chocolate, and spicy. Try to grow each type of basil plant to get a full taste of the types of food you can use them in.
