Growing great basil

Plant with seeds or a starter plant.
Well-drained soil is good soil for basil.
Keep the temperature fairly warm with lots of sunlight (at least six hours a day)
Fertilize the soil about once a month if you're growing it indoors.
Water often in hot weather.
Prune it!
Keep insects away.

Does basil grow better in pots or in the ground?
How do you pinch basil leaves to promote growth?
Does basil grow well in pots?
Does basil need direct sunlight?
How long does a basil plant live?
Does basil grow back after you cut it?
When should I cut basil?
Are coffee grounds good for basil?
Is it OK for basil to flower?

Does basil grow better in pots or in the ground?

Basil will grow best in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily, though it can perform well in partial sun, too. Soil should be moist but well-drained. Basil works great in containers or raised beds, as these allow for better drainage.

How do you pinch basil leaves to promote growth?

Basil plants initially grow one central stem. Once they are reach 6-8 inches tall, pinch the central stem back by half and about ¼ inch above the leaf axils. This will force the plants to branch and grow more leaves. As the plants keep sending out new branching stems, continue to pinch them back in the same manner.

Does basil grow well in pots?

Choosing a Container

You really can grow basil in almost anything. ... Basil is prone to fungus, so keeping airflow between plants is important. Make sure your pot has plenty of drainage and that you use high-quality potting soil. Basil doesn't like to be too wet, so you want to keep your soil moist, not soggy.

Does basil need direct sunlight?

Basil thrives in warm temperatures and full morning sun. If you live in an area with scorching midday sun, try to give your basil light shade during the hottest time of day. 2. Amend the garden soil with plenty of organic matter to create a rich, well-draining foundation for your basil.

How long does a basil plant live?

Basil may survive for two years before replanting in warm climates. An indoor basil plant with full sun and steady warm temperatures may last longer as well. Basil plants are sensitive to cold weather and frost.

Does basil grow back after you cut it?

Even after a major cutting back, the herb will be ready for pruning again in a few weeks. Pinching or cutting back basil plants regularly encourages full, bushy plants.

When should I cut basil?

When to trim basil

And when trimming basil it's best to start early when the seedlings are about six to eight inches tall and have three to four sets of leaves. At that point, each plant is likely a single stem. I like to pinch that main stem back to a strong set of side shoots, removing about one-third of the plant.

Are coffee grounds good for basil?

Coffee grounds do have a place in the growth of basil. You just have to be careful when you use it. We know that basil likes soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. ... It's best to use compost that has coffee grounds in it rather than incorporate them directly into the soil.

Is it OK for basil to flower?

You can expect the blooms to taste similar to the leaves, but with a milder flavor. ... If, however, your intent when cultivating basil is for a big batch of pesto, you'll want to pinch back the herb to encourage leaf growth. Pinch off the flower buds as soon as they emerge.