What is the easiest way of growing basil from seed? Is it really that simple, or does it involve a bit of know-how on your part? What is the earliest basil plant that I can remember having in my herb garden growing up in the family? Learning how to grow herbs can be fun and enjoyable, and learning to plant them is no different. Here s what you will find in this brief article for growing basil from seed.
This guide covers everything from when to begin to harvest, and what to use for the finished plant. Plus you will discover when to harvest and how to use the basil that you did harvest to add to your cuisine. Plus you will find step by step planting instructions, most likely over an image of a plant, complete with common issues, problems, remedy, and so forth. Also included are planting instructions for other frequently used and popular herbs, and some suggestions for growing herbs organically.
Basil is one of the easiest of Mediterranean herbs to grow, with virtually no maintenance required. There are three kinds of basil plants, each having its own growing seasons and growing time. You can harvest any of the three types, any time of year, to add fresh basil plants into your garden.
Although it has not been proven, it seems likely that basil plants do better in a warmer climate. Basil does best in direct sunlight, but can tolerate some shade as well. The preferred growing season is June through November. It is not uncommon for some varieties to grow to their full mature height in only a few weeks. So, if you start them late in the fall, or at the end of the summer, you should be able to enjoy your basil crop in the spring.
After purchasing your seed, it is important that you carefully follow the planting instructions included with your seed packets. Typically, you will need about four hours of sunlight, but you can plant your herb much farther away from the home, in a shaded area, such as in the back yard. Just remember to dig a hole that is deep enough to hold the roots of the plants you are planting. If you live in a warm climate, you will probably need to water your herb often throughout the growing season.
The next step in growing basil from seed is to purchase a good growing medium. Many people choose to use loose gravel or sandy soil. The final step in planting is to prepare the soil by tilling it, adding compost or fertilizer, or applying water.
When choosing containers for planting your herb, keep in mind the type of plant you have. Basil tends to grow well in pots that are eight to ten inches deep and three to four inches wide. Small seedlings should be planted in small holes, but larger seedlings should be planted in large Terra cotta pots. Keep in mind that your plants will become stressed if they are placed in very hot or cold weather, so consider where you are going to be planting them and choose a pot that allows for room temperature. Do not place your seedlings too close together, as they may get over-heated and suffer from overheating.
Growing basil from seed can be an enjoyable hobby or a great way to teach children about growing their own herbs. You do not have to be an experienced gardener to start growing your own herbs, but it does take some work. It is important that you make your plants as comfortable as possible in their new surroundings, providing them with plenty of light, moisture, and nutrients. Make sure you follow all of the planting instructions carefully and watch for pests and diseases. Overwatering your seedlings is not an issue when growing them indoors, but you do need to give them a regular watering to help them grow.