How to Grow Basil from Seed
March 2, 2023
Basil is a literary character in the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. He is an artist and friend of Dorian Gray's and a key figure in the novel. He paints a portrait of Dorian that shows his true nature and is instrumental in revealing the depths of Dorian's depravity. Basil is an admirer of beauty and a possible victim of Dorian's callousness.
Basil is one of the most popular herbs grown in the home garden. It is easy to grow and its distinct flavor and fragrance make it a favorite in many kitchens. Read on to find out how to grow your own basil in just a few simple steps.
Choosing a Variety
When deciding what variety of basil you want to grow, be sure to take into consideration the climate where you live, your tastes and how you plan to use the basil. Some popular varieties include sweet, Genovese, Thai, cinnamon, purple-leaf and lemon basil. Sweet basil is the most common variety and is suitable for all types of climates. Genovese basil is an Italian variety that has large, tender leaves and is ideal for cooking. Thai basil has a sweet licorice flavor and is more heat-tolerant than other basils. Cinnamon basil has a cinnamon-like aroma, while purple-leaf basil has decorative magenta-tinted leaves. Lastly, lemon basil has a strong lemon scent and flavor.
Selecting a Location
Basil likes plenty of sunlight and warmth, so it’s best to plant it in a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Basil also does well in pots, so you can easily move it around if needed. When growing it in pots, make sure you choose one that is at least 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Also, make sure your pot has good drainage so the roots don’t become waterlogged.
Planting the Basil
Fill your pot with a quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Place two to three basil seeds in the center of the pot and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water lightly and keep the soil moist. You should see the seeds germinate in 5-10 days. Once your basil plants have at least five leaves, you can thin them out and move the strongest plants to a larger pot or to your garden bed.
Taking Care of Your Basil
Basil needs consistent watering, so make sure to water it regularly but don’t allow the soil to become waterlogged. Basil also likes nutrient-rich soil, so adding a fertilizer or compost to the soil will help keep your plants healthy and vigorous. Additionally, it’s important to regularly harvest the leaves so the plant doesn’t become overgrown and leggy.
Conclusion
Growing basil from seeds is easy and rewarding. With a little bit of effort, you can have delicious, fresh basil that you can use in any dish. So get those pots ready and start your own basil garden today!
