An Easy Guide for Growing Basil in Pots in 10 Steps

Author: Saiqa Najeeb
Last Updated On: June 27, 2023

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Have you ever savoured the delicious aroma of fresh Basil wafting through your kitchen? If not, then you’re in for a treat! Basil, a popular herb, is not only a flavorful addition to your favourite recipes, but it’s also incredibly easy to grow.

If you’ve been looking to add some greenery to your home or apartment, then growing Basil in pots is the perfect solution. It is a convenient way to have fresh herbs at your fingertips year-round, and it’s also a fun and rewarding hobby that anyone can enjoy.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to successfully grow and care for Basil in pots, even if you’re a beginner. So, grab your gardening tools and start growing the best basil plants you’ve ever tasted!

About Basil

Basil, also known as Ocimum basilicum, is a popular herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to tropical regions of central Africa and Southeast Asia but is now grown worldwide. Basil has a delightful aroma and is often used in Italian, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s an easy-to-grow plant that is a must-have in any herb garden.

Why Should You Consider Growing Basil in Pots?

Basil is an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone health.
Basil has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing inflammation and improve overall health.
Basil is a natural insect repellent and can help keep pests like mosquitoes and flies away.
Basil is a versatile herb used in various dishes, including salads, pasta dishes, soups, and more.
Growing Basil in pots is an easy and convenient way to have fresh Basil available for your culinary needs year-round.

Recomended Varieties for Growing Basil in Pots

Sweet Basil: This is the most common variety of Basil and is often used in Italian cuisine. It has a sweet and slightly spicy flavour.
Thai Basil: This variety has a liquorice-like flavour and is often used in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.
Lemon Basil: This variety has a lemony flavour and is often used in seafood dishes and salads.
Purple Basil: This variety has a unique purple colour and a slightly spicy flavour. It’s often used as a garnish in salads and other dishes.
Holy Basil: This variety is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have healing properties. It has a peppery flavour and is often used in Indian cuisine.

When Should You Plant Basil?

Basil is a warm-weather plant that can be planted in late Spring or early Summer. Planting Basil after all danger of frost has passed is important, as even a light frost can damage or kill the tender basil plants. If you live in a region with a short growing season, you can start Basil indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.

Where Should You Plant Basil?

When growing basil in pots, choose a spot with plenty of sunlight. Basil requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and develop properly. If you don’t have a location that receives enough sunlight, consider using a grow light or planting in a different location.

Basil prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can improve your soil’s drainage by adding sand or perlite to the soil. In addition to sunlight and well-draining soil, Basil also prefers warm temperatures and moderate humidity. If you live in a region with high humidity, consider planting Basil in a location with good air circulation.

How to Choose the Right Container for Growing Basil?

When selecting a container for your Basil, choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom. Basil prefers well-draining soil; excess water can cause the roots to rot. A 6-8 inch diameter pot is usually sufficient for one basil plant, but if you’re planting multiple plants in the same container, make sure there is enough space for each plant to grow and develop properly. If you’re short on space, you can also use hanging baskets or window boxes to grow Basil.

Step-by-Step Guide for Planting Basil in pots

1 Planting Basil from Seeds

Here is how you can plant Basil from seeds:

Start by filling a small container with potting soil.
Moisten the soil with water and then sprinkle the basil seeds on top of the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, about 1/4 inch deep.
Place the container in a warm, sunny location, and keep the soil moist by watering regularly.
When the seedlings reach about 2 inches in height, transplant them into larger containers or directly into the garden.
To transplant, make a hole in the soil slightly larger than the seedling’s root ball. Remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the soil level around it is the same as the surrounding soil.
Water the newly transplanted seedlings immediately after planting.

2 Planting Basil from Cuttings

Here is how you can plant Basil from cuttings:

Cut a stem from an established basil plant, about 4-6 inches long. Cut just below a set of leaves.
Remove the leaves from the stem’s bottom 2-3 inches, and then dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
Plant the stem in a small container filled with potting soil.
Place the container in a warm, sunny location, and keep the soil moist by watering regularly.
Roots should form on the stem after about 2-3 weeks. Now, you can transplant the cutting into a larger container or directly into the garden.
To transplant, make a hole in the soil slightly larger than the root ball of the cutting. Carefully remove the cutting from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the soil level around the cutting is the same as the surrounding soil.
Water the newly transplanted cutting immediately after planting.

3 Planting Basil from Transplants

Here is how you can plant Basil from transplants:

Purchase basil transplants from a local garden centre or nursery.
Select a container or garden location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily and has well-draining soil.
Make a hole in the soil slightly larger than the transplant’s root ball. Carefully remove the transplant from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the soil level around the transplant is the same as the surrounding soil.
Water the newly transplanted Basil immediately after planting.
If planting multiple transplants in the same container, ensure enough space for each plant to grow and develop properly.

How Long Does it Take for Growing Basil in Pots?

The expected duration for growing Basil in pots varies based on the planting method:

From seeds: Basil seeds take 5-10 days to germinate, and it takes around 5-6 weeks for the plant to reach maturity.
From cuttings: Basil cuttings usually take 2-3 weeks to develop roots and can be transplanted into a larger container after 4-6 weeks.
From transplants: If you start with a transplant, you can expect to harvest Basil in about 4-6 weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

How to Care for Basil?

Basil is a comparatively easy plant to care for but requires some attention to thrive. Here are a few tips for caring for your basil growing in pots:

Watering: Basil needs to be watered regularly, but be careful not to over-water. Allow the soil to get dry slightly between watering sessions. Water at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilizing: Basil benefits from regular fertilizing. You can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season or balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
Pruning: When your basil plant has 6-8 leaves, pinch off the top set of leaves just above a set of lower leaves. This will encourage new growth and a bushier plant.
Overwintering: Basil is an annual plant and will die off at the end of the growing season. However, you can prolong its life by bringing it indoors before the first frost and placing it in a sunny location. Pinch off any flowers or buds to prevent the plant from going to seed, and continue to water and fertilize as needed.

Watch out for Common Pests and Diseases of Basil

Basil is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some most common issues you may encounter when growing Basil in pots:

Fusarium Wilt: This soil-borne fungal disease affects the roots of Basil, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. The leaves may also develop brown spots. This disease is difficult to treat, so prevention is key. Ensure good drainage and avoid over-watering.

Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves of Basil, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. They can be controlled with an organic pesticide or spraying the plant with a strong jet of water.

Slugs and Snails: These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of Basil. They can be controlled with a slug and snail bait or by placing copper tape around the pot’s base.

Japanese Beetles: These pests feed on the leaves of Basil, causing skeletonization of the leaves. They can be controlled with an organic pesticide or by handpicking off the plant.

Tips for Harvesting and Storing Basil

Here are some short tips for harvesting and storing Basil:

Harvest in the morning when oils are most concentrated for the best flavour.
Prune regularly to prevent bitter leaves.
Dry Basil upside down in a cool, dry place.
Freeze chopped leaves in ice cube trays for later use.
Keep fresh Basil in water like a bouquet, or wrap it in a damp paper towel and store it in the refrigerator.
Avoid washing basil leaves before storing them to prevent mould.
Use harvested Basil within a few days for the best flavour.
Avoid storing Basil in the fridge for too long, as it can wilt quickly.
Label frozen or dried Basil with the date to keep track of freshness.
Store dried Basil in an airtight container to preserve flavour.

Now is the time to grow, Basil!

Growing Basil in pots is a great way to add fresh herbs to your meals and brighten your living space. So pick up some seeds or a plant from your local nursery, and start your basil garden today!

Remember to follow the tips and techniques discussed in this post, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little effort, you’ll soon be enjoying the fresh, aromatic taste of homegrown Basil in your favourite dishes.