Planting

Basil

Planting Time Plant basil once the danger of frost has strutted out of town. This warm weather herb loves it hot, so much it would sunbathe on a tin roof if it could. When nighttime temperatures stay above fifty degrees, you are clear to sow. Basil jumps into action fast, rising out of the soil like it smelled spaghetti sauce cooking.

Depth & Spacing Plant seeds about one-quarter inch deep and give each plant ten to twelve inches of elbow room. Basil has being crowded more than a cowboy hates waiting in line at the saloon bar. Good spacing means better airflow, happier leaves, and pesto potential that will make your neighbors jealous.

Soil & Fertilization Basil thrives in well-drained soil that is rich but not overloaded with nitrogen. Too much nitrogen will grow leaves the size of dinner plates but dilute the flavor faster than watery down sweet tea. Keep it balanced and natural. A compost boost will make this herb sing like a fiddle at a barn dance.

Watering Needs Water consistently but do not drown the poor thing. Basil likes moisture, but soggy soil makes it wilt faster than a raccoon caught in the chicken coop spotlight. Water at the base, keep the leaves dry when possible, and mulch lightly to hold in moisture without starting a swamp.

Sunlight Requirements Basil needs full sun for flavor that will knock your boots off. Six to eight hours is the sweet spot. The more sunshine it gets, the more aromatic and flavorful the leaves become. Treat basil like a country singer-put it in the spotlight and let it perform.

Harvesting Harvest leaves once the plant is about six to eight inches tall. Pinch from the top to encourage bushy growth-basil loves a good haircut. Never let it flower if you want maximum flavor. Once basil blooms, it starts acting like it is retiring from the herb business and the flavor loses its punch.

Captain Greenhouse Tip If you want basil that tastes like it came straight out of a five star Italian kitchen, prune early and prune often. Basil rewards tough love. The more you pinch, the more it produces. Grow several plants and you will have enough to keep your pasta happy, your tomato salad singing, and your neighbors knocking on your door asking why it smells so good at your place.