On Growing Basil
Basil is easy to grow and just about the only plant that's been nice enough to give me a real sense of accomplishment.
We've grown basil from seed, tended to a neighbor's established plant, and transplanted a plant from the supermarket. Although difficult to control for differences in soil, the plants grown from seed are the strongest. Pictured here, these plants are hearty and grow like weeds. Growing from seeds allows you to select the strongest plants through successive thinning.
Lacking a good basil taste, the plant from the grocery store is a disappointment. It grows slowly and often looks anemic. Given how easy it is to grow from seed, we'll likely sow all of our basil next year.
Basil likes, nay, loves hot weather. It also likes to be on the dry side. Be sure not to over water it and grow it in well-drained soil. Our best basil grows in a small, plastic planter box that can't be more than 6 or 8 inches deep. Paired with fresh tomato and a little olive oil, it's absolutely wonderful.
Finally, pinch off any buds that pop up. Once seeds have formed the plant will stop producing new growth, thinking that it's accomplished its reproductive mission.
We've grown basil from seed, tended to a neighbor's established plant, and transplanted a plant from the supermarket. Although difficult to control for differences in soil, the plants grown from seed are the strongest. Pictured here, these plants are hearty and grow like weeds. Growing from seeds allows you to select the strongest plants through successive thinning.
Lacking a good basil taste, the plant from the grocery store is a disappointment. It grows slowly and often looks anemic. Given how easy it is to grow from seed, we'll likely sow all of our basil next year.
Basil likes, nay, loves hot weather. It also likes to be on the dry side. Be sure not to over water it and grow it in well-drained soil. Our best basil grows in a small, plastic planter box that can't be more than 6 or 8 inches deep. Paired with fresh tomato and a little olive oil, it's absolutely wonderful.
Finally, pinch off any buds that pop up. Once seeds have formed the plant will stop producing new growth, thinking that it's accomplished its reproductive mission.
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