Herbs are beneficial in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an easy way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes.
I am pleased to introduce, Basil, a sweet herb, member of the Mint Family. Sweet Basil is the most popular grown basil plant but it grows in a host of other varieties. This herb is well known for flavoring foods and in its long past has been used for folk remedies.
Old tales:
growing basil has a special significance in many cultures throughout the world. The people of India swore their oaths in court on basil leaves. 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.
Medicinal use:
There are big health benefits of growing basil. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally 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.
Growing Basil-
Growing basil can be childs-play. The seed can be sown indoors, then transplanting outside at a later date. It can even be full grown indoors if preferred. The plant needs plenty of sun to thrive. You can use fluorescent ’grow’ bulbs if there is inadequate lighting in your home.
The seeds should be sown about 1” from each other, in a warm time of year. When the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be replanted. But, always make sure the last frost has past.
Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Do not over fertilize because this action diminishes the unique fragrance of the plant.
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. Both of these plants require a lot of sunlight, and watering, so it is convenient to place them close to each other. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! Basil also acts as a natural insect repellent, either in the home kitchen, or to keep pests away from other plants.
After 6” of growth, the top leaves are ready to be removed. 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.