Giving you some ideas of how to keep those potted basil plants going for longer. Video idea came from Edward who tried and failed to grow supermarket potted basil many times in his student flats, so he was curious to see how they could be kept going.
Basil is a popular herb that can be easily grown in pots, providing a fresh supply of leaves for culinary use. Here are three different ways to grow potted basil:
Indoor Basil in a Windowsill Pot:
- Choose a small to medium-sized pot with drainage holes. Basil can be grown indoors in any season.
- Fill the pot with well-draining potting soil.
- Sow basil seeds or transplant seedlings into the pot, leaving about 6 inches (15 cm) between each plant.
- Place the pot in a sunny windowsill where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
- Water the basil regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- You can start harvesting basil leaves when the plant has several sets of true leaves. Pinch or cut the leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth.
Outdoor Container Garden:
- Choose a larger pot or container with good drainage for outdoor basil.
- Fill the container with well-draining potting mix.
- Plant basil seeds or transplant seedlings into the container, spacing them about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) apart.
- Place the pot in a sunny outdoor location where it gets full sun (at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily).
- Water the basil deeply when the top inch of soil is dry, and mulch the surface to help retain moisture.
- Outdoor basil plants can grow quite large, so regular pruning is essential to maintain bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy.
Hydroponic Basil:
- Basil can also be grown hydroponically, which means it’s cultivated in a soilless system using nutrient-rich water.
- Set up a hydroponic system or purchase a ready-made hydroponic kit suitable for herbs.
- Place basil seedlings or cuttings in the hydroponic system’s growing medium (e.g., rock wool or peat moss).
- Ensure the nutrient solution in the system contains the necessary minerals for basil growth.
- Provide adequate light using grow lights or natural sunlight, depending on the setup.
- Monitor the nutrient levels, pH, and water temperature in the system and adjust as needed.
- Harvest basil as it grows, and be sure to keep the hydroponic system clean and well-maintained.
These three methods offer flexibility for growing basil in pots, whether you have limited indoor space, a sunny outdoor garden, or prefer the controlled environment of hydroponics. Regardless of the method you choose, basil is relatively easy to cultivate and can provide a continuous supply of fresh leaves for your culinary delights.
