Basil is different from most herbs and needs different conditions. Here is what you need to know:
Purchase sturdy plants, or start seeds several weeks before planting outdoors. Seedlings need a spot in a sunny window or a few inches below a 2-tube fluorescent fixture for sturdy growth. Plant according to package directions, water, and place the container inside a plastic bag to conserve moisturre. After the seedlings have appeared, gradually open the bag to expose plants to the air.
Purchased plants should be rich green, and should not have roots growing out of the bottom of the pot. Plants that have formed flowering stems are past their prime and should be avoided. Once established, basil grows rapidly, so save money by purchasing the smallest size you can find.
Growing and Harvesting--Soil, Moisture, Location, and Light
Even in subtropical climates, basil can fail if it's planted outdoors too early. Wait until the ground and air are thoroughly warm before setting plants out. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs (Rodale Press, 1987) recommends waiting until the minimum temperature exceeds 50 degrees.
Basil needs a well-drained location in full sun or partial shade. The lean soil so many herbs prefer will not suit basil. Poor soil produces spindly, sickly plants. Add compost or manure, and improve the moisture-holding capacity of the soil with peat moss if necessary.
Forget what you know about drought-tolerant herbs like thyme and rosemary. Basil will wilt and die if it does not get regular moisture. Water every day that it doesn't rain for the first week, and enough to keep plants from wilting thereafter. Mulch plants to help conserve moisture.
If you allow the flower stalks to remain on the plant, basil will go to seed and stop producing leaves. Keep harvesting those tops and use the trimmings for pizza and Italian sauces. You can harvest as much as a third of the plant at a time, but be sure to feed the plants after heavy harvests.
Controlling Pests
Basil plants are usually pest-free, but if yours are being nibbled, a regular spraying with soapy water may solve the problem. For more serious pest problems, consult the Herb Society of America website.
Once you've mastered the basics, you can experiment with flavored varieties of basil like lemon, lime, and cinnamon varieties. You can also improve the beauty of your landscape with purple ruffles and green ruffles basil, both of which are pretty enough to plant in a flower garden. With a little practice, you'll find that basil is one of the most rewarding herbs you can grow.
 |
