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Make sure your pot has plenty of drainage and that you use high-quality potting mix. Basil doesn’t like to be too wet, so keep your soil moist, not soggy. Try using fabric pots. And for a more finished look, you can put the fabric pot in a larger vessel.
What size pot should I plant basil in?
The best container size for a single basil plant is of at least 2 gallons (9 liters) and at least 8/10 inches (20/25cm) deep. These are good guidelines for what well-developed potted basil might need to thrive.
What is the best way to plant basil?
Choosing and Preparing a Planting Site Basil will grow best in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily, though it can perform well in partial sun, too. Soil should be moist but well-drained. Basil works great in containers or raised beds, as these allow for better drainage.
How many basil plants can I grow in a pot?
Put 4 to 6 basil seeds in a pot. Once the seedlings have their first set of true leaves, thin to 1 or 2 plants per pot. Basil transplants well, but the plants will appreciate being protected from wind and sun for the first several days.
What pot is best for basil?
Fabric Smart Pots are great for growing basil in containers. They’re light-weight, and produce a healthy, more fibrous root system on the plants. Choose the 3 or 4-gallon size. Ceramic pots hold the day’s heat longer, and are the best choice for growing basil in northern and short-season alpine climates.
How often should you water basil?
Basil Plant Care Tips Water regularly – basil likes to stay moist and requires approximately 1 inch of water every week. Water deeply at least once a week to keep roots growing deep and the soil moist. Basil growing in containers will need more frequent watering.
Does basil need deep pot?
The kind of pot you use doesn’t really matter, basil just needs at least 8 inches of depth to grow and the container needs proper drainage. At planting time, add organic fertilizer to the root. It’s important to remember that this flavorful herb doesn’t like to have waterlogged roots.
Can you plant basil in potting soil?
You can grow basil in almost anything. However, basil is prone to fungus, so keeping airflow between plants is important. Make sure your pot has plenty of drainage and that you use high-quality potting mix. Basil doesn’t like to be too wet, so keep your soil moist, not soggy.
When should basil be planted?
Basil is an annual herb, so you will need to sow fresh seed each year between February and June. Fill your pot with a good quality seed compost such as John Innes No 1 and firm the compost to create a level surface. Moisten the compost and let any excess water drain before you sow your seeds.
Can basil get too much sun?
Basil Sun Requirements Full-sun conditions may lead to leaf scorch on seedlings, which causes discoloration and a droopy effect, especially along the edges of the leaves. Anything less than full sun for mature basil plants has the same effect, sans discoloration.
How do I start basil?
Fill with sterile seed starting medium. Sow 2-3 basil seeds per cell or pot, planting them 1/4″ deep and firming the soil well over top. Keep the trays or pots warm (between 75°F and 85°F) and moist until germination—which should happen in about 5-7 days in ideal conditions.
Does basil need drainage holes?
Basil likes water, but too much H2O stresses it out. The pot needs some kind of drainage. This will drain excess water. If you don’t have a hole, but love a pot, drill small holes in the bottom.
How do you fertilize basil?
Fertilizing Basil Apply it when you would normally water the plant. If you choose a granular type fertilizer, choose a balanced one with equal amounts of nitrogen, potassium and phosphate. 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 formulas work well for fertilizing basil. Scatter the granules around the plant and water them in well.
How long will basil live?
Basil may survive for two years before replanting in warm climates. An indoor basil plant with full sun and steady warm temperatures may last longer as well. Basil plants are sensitive to cold weather and frost. Before the weather turns, take steps to preserve your plant for the next year.
Can you overwater basil?
Watering a Basil Plant While considered an annual, you can grow basil in a container and bring it indoors for longer production. New and established plants require consistent moisture but cannot be left soggy. It is a fine line that cannot be crossed because overwatering will cause the plant stems to mildew and rot.
Why is my basil plant dying?
Soil that’s too dry or too wet is the most common reason for a basil plant wilting. Although basil plants thrive in full sunlight, they also need consistently moist, high quality soil with good drainage. If your basil plant is drooping or wilting, check the soil and reconsider your basil watering schedule.
