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I grow my own basil because the store-bought stuff wilts too fast. Homegrown leaves have a much deeper flavor and help me cut down on plastic waste from grocery store packaging. Basil is also a fantastic companion plant. I tuck it in next to my tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, as these crops all grow better when they are neighbors. Growing at home also lets me explore varieties you never see at the bodega, like Dark Opal or Cinnamon basil. It adds a whole new level of flavor to the kitchen that you just can't buy.
Indoors: Place the plant in a south-facing window or supplement with a grow light.
Outdoors: Basil requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Indoors: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially indoors when air is dry.
Outdoors: Water regularly, and mulch helps retain moisture.
Basil is a warm weather crop and thrives in 50-90°F, ideally 80-90°F. Plant outside when soil is above 50°F and after the threat of frost has passed. Indoors, maintain 60-70°F year-round.
Indoors: 6-8" wide, 6" deep, 1 gallon
Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons
Basil thrives in a potting mix with plenty of compost, top it with worm castings for extra beneficial microbes. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to keep the roots happy.
Use balanced fertilizer 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: fish emulsion, compost tea. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent overly tender growth.
Pinch off basil tops regularly to make it bushier and remove flower buds to prevent seeding. Regular harvesting ensures continuous leaf growth.
Moderate: 8-10 Weeks
Basil is an excellent source of Vitamin K for bone health and manganese, which helps the body process nutrients like cholesterol and protein.
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