Bush basil makes it easy for us to propagate. From one plant in the twinkling of an eye become two, three or even more copies. Because cuttings provides a bushy bush basil enough. We just need to get down to business and make them take root. This is how you succeed.
Advantages of cuttings
You can also propagate perennial bush basil by sowing seeds. However, not every plant yields usable seeds, as they are often hybrid varieties. The purchase of germinable seeds also costs money and takes time
If a plant is already present, its shoots offer us a better alternative for propagation. In this case, the new plant inherits the properties of the mother plant. So you know what to expect. Also, a cutting will develop into a plant ready for harvesting more quickly.
Suitable cuttings
A regularly cut basil plant will develop into a bushy shrub. You will have no trouble finding a suitable cutting. It is ideal like this:
- the shoot is freshly cut
- it should not be woody
- the length should be at least 10 cm
- lower leaves are removed
- Ideal time for propagation
The best period for this type of propagation is from late summer to autumn. Approximately when the edible shrub must move indoors for the winter.
Rooting cuttings in water
Put the cuttings in a glass filled with water, which you then place on a bright and warm windowsill. Once the formed roots are 2-3 cm long, you should plant the cuttings in small pots. Use special herbal soil or lean cactus soil.
Put cuttings immediately in soil
Rooting in a water glass is not mandatory, because the cuttings also take root well in moist soil. Fill small growing pots (7,00€ at Amazon*) with growing soil and put the cuttings about 3 cm deep into it. The location should also be bright and warm. A plastic bag placed over the cuttings promotes rooting. However, it must be aired regularly.
As soon as the first new leaves appear, you know that the rooting has worked. You may soon plant the young plantlets in larger pots.
Tips
bush basil is not hardy. Wait until the freezing temps in May to plant it in the bed. On warm days, however, you are welcome to place the young bush basil temporarily outdoors.
