Ocimum basilicum
An aromatic herb essential for any kitchen garden, basil is easy to grow and pairs perfectly with tomatoes both in the garden and on the plate.
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Blend compost with aged bark fines to create a fluffy, well-drained bed or container mix. Basil thrives in slightly alkaline soils, so incorporate a tablespoon of dolomitic lime per square foot if pH tests below 6.0.
Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy. In beds, water 1 inch per week; in containers, check daily during peak heat and irrigate when the top inch is dry.
Mix a slow-release organic fertilizer into the planting zone and supplement every three weeks with a diluted fish emulsion drench to keep foliage lush without turning bitter.
Pinch the top pair of leaves as soon as plants reach 6 inches tall. Harvest by cutting stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching and prevent early flowering.
Harvest in the cool morning for best flavor. Store stems in a glass of water on the counter and loosely cover with a bag. For longer keeping, pulse with olive oil and freeze in ice cube trays.
These plants grow well together and can provide mutual benefits like pest control, improved soil health, and efficient space usage.
Watch out for these common pests and diseases. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining healthy plants.
| Issue | How to fix it |
|---|---|
| Leaves develop black spots | Provide better airflow, avoid overhead watering, and spray a neem solution weekly until the issue clears. |
| Plants bolt prematurely | Harvest more frequently, reduce heat stress with light shade cloth, and keep soil moisture consistent. |
| Yellowing leaves in containers | Leach the potting mix with plain water to remove fertilizer salts, then feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer. |
Classic Italian variety with large, cupped leaves ideal for pesto.
Licorice-scented basil that handles heat and shines in stir-fries.
Bright citrus aroma for tea blends and fish dishes; compact growth habit.
Check out our companion planting guides and learn about creating productive plant guilds for your garden.
