Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an super way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes. Unknown to most, basil is really a member of the mint family! Although there is a few different varieties of basil, sweet basil is the most popular and well known. When it comes to old age medical remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.
Folklore-
Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to cultures all over the world. Indians swore oaths with basil leaves in court. To signify love, Italian suitors wore a sprig of basil in their hair when they courted their ladies. A popular Mexican belief is that carrying basil would return a cheating lover.
Medical uses-
There are big health benefits of growing basil. The herb is a natural source of beta-carotene, which is packed with Vitamin A. The herb is known by herbalists as a ‘cure-all’ for a wide array of ailments, from stomach trouble to headaches. In fact, the list of benefits from this herb proves it so powerful; Basil is considered the “King” of herbs.
Don’t worry, growing basil is a breeze. You can grow basil plants started from seed inside the house before transplanting into the garden. If you lack the space for growing basil outdoors, it can be grown inside. The plant needs plenty of sun to thrive. You can use fluorescent ’grow’ bulbs if there is not enough lighting in your home.
Sow the seed in a warm time of year, about an inch apart. After a few leaves have grown, the basil can then be re-planted. But, always make sure the last frost has past.
Add a some mulch of about three inches. Organic mulch is an excellent choice. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Never use too much fertilizer, as this can remove the unique odor from the herb.
When re-planting, dig the herbs in at least 1 – 1 feet apart from each other, to ensure appropriate growing space. For growing basil, it has essentially two requirements, well-drained soil, and a sunny, moist area.
Basil should be pruned fortnightly to increase its hardiness. To do this, clip the leaves back, but stop ¼ inch above the node. This is to ensure enough foliage is left for growth to continue. Deadhead any flower stems to keep the plant in production.
It is a good idea when growing basil, to plant it near your tomato vines. These plants equally need sunlight and above average watering, so having them near each other will be more convenient for the time-pressed gardener. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! Basil is a big help around the kitchen and helps to repel insects in the garden.
Once the basil plant has reached six inches, you can start to pinch off the top sets of leaves. This herb has been known to reach heights of up to 24 inches. Growing basil is a big benefit to both your garden and your household.
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