Basil Growing Tips
Basil is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow—even if you’re just starting out. With a few simple tips, you’ll be harvesting fresh, fragrant basil in no time!
Give Basil Plenty of Sunlight
Basil loves sunshine! Aim to give it 6–8 hours of sunlight each day. But if the sun gets too intense and your basil starts to wilt, offer some shade or water it more thoroughly. Consistent watering is key—basil likes moist (but not soggy) soil.
From Seed to Harvest
Basil seeds usually sprout in 7–10 days. You can start harvesting in just 3–4 weeks! Wait until the plant is about 6 inches tall and has at least six healthy leaves before you begin pruning.
Prune for a Fuller Plant
To keep your basil bushy and healthy, prune about one-third of the leaves every month. Regular trimming encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.
Prevent Flowering (Bolting)
Once basil starts to flower, the leaves can turn bitter. To avoid this, pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear—about an inch below the bud. Also, try to protect your plant from extreme heat, which can speed up bolting.
Go Easy on Fertilizer
Basil actually tastes better when grown in plain soil without a lot of extra nutrients. Too much fertilizer can dull its flavor. A simple trick? Use coffee grounds as a light liquid fertilizer—they add nutrients, fight fungus, and keep pests away.
Water the Right Way
Water your basil at the base, not from above. This helps prevent fungal issues. Only water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Keep the soil consistently moist, but never soggy.
Avoid Overcrowding
If you’re planting basil outdoors, make sure to space the plants properly. Overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation, which increases the risk of disease and stunts growth.
Pick the Right Variety for Your Climate
There are over 150 types of basil, and not all of them thrive in every climate. Check your growing zone and choose a variety that suits your area for the best results.
Harvest Early
Start harvesting early to keep your plant producing. Morning is the best time to pick basil—just be sure not to remove more than 25% of the plant at once. Weekly harvesting helps redirect energy into leaf production instead of seed development.
Companion Planting: Tomatoes & Marigolds
Basil grows well with friends! Plant it near tomatoes to get some extra shade and moisture retention. Add marigolds to the mix—they repel pests naturally, keeping your basil safer and healthier.
