About Basil
Basil is the quintessential kitchen herb, producing fragrant leaves perfect for pesto, Caprese salads, and countless dishes. It grows quickly from seed and thrives in warm, sunny conditions. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth and prevents flowering.
Light
Needs bright light—at least 6 hours of sun or strong grow lights. Sunny kitchen windowsills are ideal.
Pinch off flower buds as they appear—flowering changes the flavor of leaves and signals the plant to stop producing foliage. Regular harvesting keeps basil productive.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Basil wilts dramatically when thirsty but recovers quickly.
Humidity
Appreciates moderate humidity but tolerates average conditions.
Temperature
Loves warmth—65-85°F (18-29°C). Very cold-sensitive; keep away from drafts and cold windows.
Common Problems
Wilting
Usually needs water. If soil is moist, check for root problems.
Yellow leaves
Overwatering, cold stress, or nutrient deficiency. Check conditions.
Flowering
Pinch flowers to extend leaf production. Once flowering starts heavily, flavor declines.
Styling Notes
Basil belongs in kitchen gardens and sunny kitchen windows. Group with other culinary herbs. Multiple plants ensure a steady supply for cooking.