Many today seek to create spicy garden on the windowsill. It is both a hobby and decorative element kitchens, and a constant source of fresh herbs for meals. Basil is great for this purpose, but you need to know that this overseas guest can be very picky.
Varieties of basil for growing on the windowsill
In general, to organize a basil garden on the windowsill, any variety is suitable, but it is preferable to choose undersized and tufted ones.
Did you know? Ukrainian folk names for fragrant basil: fragrant cornflower, fragrant cornflowers, cornflower, cornflower, church cornflowers. "Cornflower" in Russian is a plant from the genus Astrovye, in Ukrainian - "voloshka".
Soil selection
Basil loves light, fertile, well-drained soil. For growing basil in a pot, it is easier to buy ready ground in a specialized store, but the usual one is also suitable garden soil if you enrich it mineral fertilizers. Purchased or garden soil before planting must be calcined in the oven at a temperature of 100-120 ° for an hour to prevent the appearance of pests. You can independently prepare the substrate from one part of humus and two parts of peat or coconut fiber, it must also be watered with liquid mineral fertilizers. 
Important! Basil is a southern culture that needs the right conditions. The land in which the seeds are sown should not be cold.
Basil growing container
For growing basil at home, a pot with a depth of at least 20-30 cm or an oblong flower box is suitable. It must be borne in mind that in the future the sprout will turn into a bush, and it should have enough space. Seeds are planted either in the main pot, or in small containers (cups), from where the sprouts are transplanted when 2-3 leaves appear.
At the bottom of a pot or box, a drainage layer of expanded clay, pebbles or broken bricks 2 cm thick must be laid out.
Did you know? More common in Europe green basil, it is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. Purple basil is more common in Asia, and its more pungent aroma is prized in oriental cooking.
The optimal time for sowing seeds is the beginning of March. To speed up the germination of basil seeds before growing, it is recommended to soak for a day in gauze moistened with a growth stimulator or simply in warm water. Change the water every 12 hours or less. Disinfection of seeds is carried out by soaking in a manganese solution for two hours. Dry the seeds with a paper towel.
Sowing basil seeds
The soil must first be well moistened. Basil is sown to a depth of 1 cm. It is recommended to leave a distance of about 7 cm between the seeds. The container is covered with a film and left in a warm place until the first shoots appear.
Conditions for seed germination
The optimum temperature for seed germination is 20-25 °C. The film must be periodically opened for ventilation and light spraying. Seedlings do not need watering. Under such conditions, seedlings appear after about 10 days. When the seedlings grow up to 5-7 cm, another 2-3 cm of soil can be added to the pot to strengthen the young shoots.
Did you know? In some central regions of Mexico, basil is placed on a shop window. It is believed that such an action reflects the state of the business: if the owner takes care of the basilica, then he is diligent and follows his business just as well.
How to care for basil at home
Temperature. Basil feels good at a temperature of + 16-25 ° C, does not tolerate drafts and low temperatures. On cold days, containers with basil can be wrapped in foil.
Light. In the warm season, the basilica has enough natural light, but in autumn and winter it will need artificial lighting.
Watering. Basil loves moderate humidity. You need to water the plant with settled water every day, it is better to do it in the morning. AT summer heat watering is also done in the evening, spraying with water will also not interfere room temperature from a spray bottle. Soil loosening. It is time to start this process when the basil sprouts become stronger and grow by about 5 cm. Once every few days, you need to loosen the soil around the plants so that it can be enriched with oxygen. For plants grown indoors, this is an important factor.
Top dressing. For feeding basil, universal fertilizers with humus are suitable, which are used for indoor plants. Once a month, you can add 1 tsp. Agrolife fertilizers on the soil surface.
Important! When the flower stalks appear on the plant, they must be cut off immediately. The greens will be more fragrant and abundant, and the plant itself will grow longer.
Harvesting
The first basil greens can be cut in a month and a half. The upper leaves are carefully cut off, leaving at least three. When the basil has three tiers of leaves, pinch the top, cutting off the top of the stem. This manipulation limits growth, the plant begins to bush profusely, forming lush foliage. But some recommend not to do this, so as not to harm the plant.
Lots of herbs, including basil, feel great on outdoors and we enjoy growing them in our garden. But it is still warm outside and the weather is conducive to this, because with the onset of cold weather this opportunity will disappear. But what if you move the herbs indoors and plant them in a container on the windowsill for further growth? I think it's a great idea! How to grow basil on a windowsill, you ask? Very simple. It can be both seeds and a plant that has already grown in the garden.
To do this, it is enough to know the basic secrets of growing this annual and create the necessary conditions for it at home:
⦁ a spacious window sill, preferably on the sunny side, windows facing south or southwest are ideal for this. If the windows face the other side of the world, or not on the sunny side, take care of additional lighting for the plant. Place the lamps at a distance of 40 - 45 cm, highlight at least 10 hours a day to make up for the lack of sunlight;
⦁ basil is thermophilic. Protect the plant from drafts.
⦁ watering is plentiful, but the plant does not accept waterlogging, therefore, the more drainage holes there are in the container, the better. Make it a rule to water the plant every other day, before checking the soil. It's completely unscientific, but it works. Place your finger on the ground and if it is wet, refrain from watering. Dry? Water a little;
Fertilizer is an important part of care, with it the plant will delight you with its intensive growth. Once a month will be enough;
⦁ before you start pruning, let the plant acclimatize and at first use only grown leaves for food. As soon as the plant gets stronger, you can pinch the young shoots by 5-7 cm. This will stimulate the growth of the plant and give it a branched shape.
Important! If you are transplanting a finished plant from the garden, then do it before it blooms. After all, if the plant goes into color, it will stop producing new tasty leaves. Therefore, keep an eye on the flowers and if they appear, just pinch them.
Basil growing from seeds
Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow at home, even without the slightest skill for it. Since basil is an annual, it grows quite quickly, and if you follow the basic growing conditions, you can enjoy fresh leaves within a few weeks after sowing.
Video - Growing basil from seeds
Important! The optimal time for sowing seeds is the beginning of March.
basil seed prices
basil seeds
Step by Step Guide to Growing Basil from Seeds
Step 1. Prepare the soil. Fill the container with soil (a mixture of peat and humus 2: 1), add water. Mix well. The soil should quickly absorb moisture, be fertile and light.
Step 2. Fill the seedling cassettes 3-5 cm below the top with moistened soil.
Step 3. Plant several seeds at once in each cell, in case some of them do not germinate.
Before sowing, it is better to disinfect the seeds by placing them in a weak solution of potassium permanganate for a couple of hours.
Step 4 Sprinkle the seeds with dry soil. Planting depth is not more than 1 cm, as the seeds are very small.
Step 5: Moisturize upper layer from a manual flower sprayer. If suddenly, any of the seeds appear on the surface, gently deepen it back into the ground.
Step 6. Close the container plastic lid or cling film. Put in a warm place, every day check the soil moisture and the appearance of the first shoots.
Important! Basil germinates very quickly and the first sprouts can hatch in 7-10 days.
Step 7. As soon as the first sprouts appear, remove the lid or film. Add extra lighting to encourage growth and avoid stretching seedlings.
Planter box prices
seedling boxes
Further care at home
After the seeds have hatched, it is very important to take care of them properly. Use the following general recommendations for this:
Watering seedlings
The frequency of watering depends on the humidity of the room. If the room is dry and warm, increase watering. Try to water the soil at least once a day, in the morning. Monitor the general condition of the soil, if top part the soil will remain constantly moist, without drying out, this can lead to mold and rotting of the sprouts.
Lighting
Basil is sun-loving and loves well-lit places, at least sunbathing should be at least 6 hours a day. At the stage active growth seedlings need an additional source of light. On average, they should receive 12-16 hours of daylight, for this, position the seedlings 10 cm below the light source. As it grows, increase the distance.
Air circulation
In order for a plant to grow and develop healthy, it needs good air circulation. So, the soil will be ventilated and dry out, thereby avoiding the appearance of mold. Watch for planting density. With a strong thickening, it is better to remove a few plants by thinning them out. Loosen the soil every three days, giving more oxygen to the roots.
Important! Do not forget to turn the container towards the sun, thereby allowing the plants to grow and develop evenly.
pruning
The basil that we see on the pages of magazines and websites is bushy and beautiful. But it won't grow that way on its own. If the basil is not cut in time, it will stretch up and not give the desired result. The key to getting a beautifully branched bushy plant, with large quantity leaves to harvest is the right way to cut it early and pinch it later. It is better to do this when the plant grows to 15 cm, and it has four or five true, and not cotyledon leaves. After the new shoots grow by 10 cm, the procedure can be repeated.
Transplanting young basil
If your plant has outgrown its pot, you can transplant it into a larger one. Lack of nutrients, soil and water will negatively affect the growth of basil and its appearance. Moreover, such a plant more susceptible to infection and pests.
During the main growth phase, basil is transplanted twice. For the first time, after the plant has a few true leaves, it can be transplanted into a pot with a diameter of 10–12 cm.
As the basil grows, it will need to be repotted one more time for it to reach its full potential and produce a powerful growth.
The main signal for transplanting basil will be the roots that have sprouted through the drainage holes.
Video - Timely picking of basil
Basil varieties
There are many varieties of basil, each with its own flavor, each with its own uses both in cooking and in cooking. medicinal purposes. Basil belongs to the mint family and is very similar to it in appearance. appearance. The most popular type of basil used in cooking is sweet basil, but some people like to cook with lemon basil, clove basil, or cinnamon vanilla flavored basil. On the this moment There are about 150 varieties of basil. But we will consider the most common varieties found in our mini-gardens.
Important! For pot growing, choose low-growing branched or lettuce varieties.
The most common cultivar, with medium, rounded, pale green leaves and a sweetish taste. Most often found on supermarket shelves and used to make pesto, tomato sauces and marinades.
Genoese basil
A classic Italian basil with very large dark green leaves. It is somewhat similar to sweet basil, but has a stronger and more pronounced taste and the leaves are flat and pointed. Widely used in Italian cuisine, and for making pesto sauce. Feels great in indoor pots.
Often found in Asian cuisine for sesame noodles and Thai chicken. It has dark pointed leaves of medium size and has a spicy licorice flavor. It is worth noting the fact that this variety of basil retains its taste with more high temperatures cooking, compared to other varieties.
purple basil
Has a bright, maroon color big leaves and has a peppery-clove flavor that perfectly saturates vinegar or oil, and also gives a beautiful color to dishes. Grows great in pots.
It has a more delicate leaf color than the predecessors listed above, but has a truly unique lemon aroma. A great addition to fish or poultry dishes, grilled vegetables, as well as desserts and teas.
It has a mild peppery aroma, with a tart, slightly salty taste. A great addition to spicy meat and poultry dishes, pastas and cheeses.
caramel basil
It has a rare fruity-caramel aroma and for this reason it is an excellent flavor for drinks, vinegars, marinades and is used as a culinary additive to desserts.
Basil application
It is only at first glance, basil is a common and fast growing herb that serves only as a condiment. In fact, a variety of flavors and aromas has a much wider range of applications.
cooking
Culinary use, one of the most popular uses for basil, is refreshing and versatile. It can spice up a pasta sauce or salad, spice up a cocktail or dessert.
Important! For the strongest basil flavor, add fresh basil leaves towards the end of cooking (although this may vary depending on the recipe).
⦁ Basil goes well with olive oil, garlic, lemon, rosemary and thyme - and, of course, tomatoes. Basil and tomatoes seem to have been made for each other, they complement each other so harmoniously;
⦁ Dried basil can be easily added to almost any dish, it is used in many cuisines of the world, it emphasizes the depth and flavor of dishes. Does not compete with other herbs, but gives its piquancy. In addition, during drying, all the useful substances of the plant are preserved;
Important! The shelf life of dried basil is no more than two years, in a cloth bag, without access to sunlight and humidity.
⦁ Italian food simply idolizes this plant, and her menu is full of recipes and ideas for using it in food, for example, in tomato sauce, or vinegars. But The best way to use it is definitely pesto sauce. A mixture of basil, garlic, nuts, cheese and olive oil is one of the most versatile seasonings;
⦁ You can make oil for salads, for this you need to chop fresh leaves and mix with good olive or vegetable oil;
⦁ When freezing leaves, first dip them in olive oil or vegetable oil;
⦁ good in combination with oregano and rosemary.
And while many tend to associate basil with Italy and other mediterranean countries, it actually originated in India, and was brought to Europe via spice routes in ancient times. In Hindi, this herb is known as Tulsi, which means "Holy Basil". It still occupies a special and important place in Ayurveda, it is not for nothing that it is also called the “elixir of life”.
ethnoscience
Basil leaves have antibacterial, antiviral and immunodeficiency properties that improve the overall health and wellness of the body.
⦁ basil is rich in antioxidants, has anti-cancer and anti-viral properties;
⦁ it is believed that it has a calming effect on the stomach;
⦁ soothing tea from dried basil leaves, helps with coughs and colds;
⦁ steam inhalation with dried basil leaves relieves headaches, for this, add a tablespoon of dried basil leaves to two cups of boiling water in a container (pot, deep plate), cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes;
⦁ basil essential oil is antibacterial, and basil oil drops often help with ear infections;
⦁ regular consumption of juice, as well as tea, normalizes blood sugar levels;
⦁ reduces stress and irritability.
Cosmetology
Basil leaves and essential oils have been used for cosmetic purposes since time immemorial. This natural remedy is enriched with antioxidants and nutrients very effective and time tested.
⦁ soothes redness of the skin, acts against acne and pimples;
⦁ natural remedy for skin infections;
⦁ home remedy from insect bites;
⦁ has an anti-aging effect;
⦁ natural treatment for dandruff and dry skin;
⦁ remedy for hair loss.
Important! Drinking plant juice, as well as adding it to face masks home cooking beneficial to the health of your skin and hair.
Useful properties of basil and contraindications
From basil, we usually use leaves that are especially rich in tannins and essential oil. In addition, it is an excellent source of iron, calcium, potassium and vitamin C, which are extremely beneficial for health. Basil also contains a large number of magnesium and manganese.
Table. The nutritional value basil for 5 g. greens
*Percent Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Basil is an annual plant, it is very warm and photophilous, since its homeland is the tropics. In our climate zone in open areas, it grows only in summer season but at home all year round. Therefore, if you decide to plant basil on the windowsill, then you will have the opportunity to pamper yourself and loved ones with fresh vitamins, because this bush is a real "storehouse" useful substances for the body. In addition, he has unique taste qualities, so the leaves are added to various dishes (soups, meat, fish, salads). Food with basil acquires a special appetizing flavor. How to grow basil on a windowsill? This is not at all difficult, but you should remember some planting rules and the features of caring for this crop.
Lighting and temperature conditions
The container with the plant is best placed near the solar window. The best temperature is 21-25 degrees. The temperature should not be allowed to drop below 20 degrees, then growth will be inhibited. If basil grows at home on the balcony, then in the cold season it is necessary to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent hypothermia. Basil does not like drafts, try to eliminate this possibility. sunlight should fall on leaves and stems at least 3-5 hours a day.
Planting container and soil for basil
For growing a basil bush at home, long wooden containers or elongated clay flower pots are ideal, as long as they are voluminous enough, as the root system grows profusely.
The soil before planting is best warmed up and fertilized with mineral top dressing or humic concentrate.
The chosen container should have good drainage to prevent fluid from stagnation. For disembarkation this plant suitable for black soil and sandy loam.
Fertilizer and watering
The plant likes regular and moderate watering. Water the basil when the soil is dry, about once every five days. The soil should be slightly damp. If you are growing a crop at home, then you do not need to water it too much, because this can only harm the basil. If you nevertheless flooded the soil, and your plant began to become moldy, then appropriate measures should be taken immediately. Dispose of infected leaves and stems to avoid further spread of the disease to healthy parts. Then powder the earth with ash and loosen well.
Basil should be watered daily, preferably in the morning. Roast summer time you can water 2 times a day (during daylight hours). Sometimes spray the bush, and in the summer this procedure is done every day.
Once every 30 days for a bush, you can use top dressing. Feed your basil with an all-purpose fertilizer that includes gummates or organic compost.
In caring for the plant, it is important to regularly loosen the soil every 3 days. Thanks to this procedure, a sufficient amount of oxygen enters the earth, which is so lacking for a plant living at home.
How to propagate basil
By growing basil at home, you can get great results. But how do you do it and where do you start? First of all, let's start with the methods of reproduction of this plant, there are several of them:
- A young bush from a cutting. Basil is propagated by cuttings, and this is the most convenient and fastest method of obtaining a new bush. Just take a few shoots or tops from an adult bush and put them in a container of water for 7-14 days. The cuttings should take root, then they can be planted in pots. After 40-50 days, the first greens will already appear, which can be eaten. Such a plant will bring you green leaves within 3-4 months.
- Growing a new plant from seed. This is a longer and more laborious way, but such a bush will last you much longer than the one that has grown through cuttings. It takes eight months to a year for a young basil to fully develop from seed.
How to grow a basil bush from seeds?
Any variety of plant is suitable for growing at home, but it is better to choose varieties with a relatively short stem length. To get started, you can take a small pot or a plastic glass. Later, when the young shoot has several true leaves, it will need to be carefully planted in a larger container without damaging the root system. Although you can immediately plant the seeds in large pots.
The soil needs fertile and light. Ordinary black soil with compost will do. For fertilizer, take a mineral top dressing. Provide high drainage properties of the soil, because it is very important for the plant. For this purpose, foam or broken brick. In front of the soil layer, lay out the selected material with a layer thickness of 2-4 cm.
Basil seeds must be soaked in a solution of potassium permanganate before planting in the ground. Then you should plant the seeds in the watered soil, pressing them about 1 cm. Space 10 centimeters between the seeds. When you have finished planting, cover the pot with cellophane, do not remove it until emergence.
In order for the seeds to germinate as quickly as possible (after 5-7 days), a temperature of 23-27 degrees is required. After about 40-50 days, the first spicy leaves will begin to appear, which can be eaten. When you cut the greens, leave 3-4 leaves on the stem to ensure the growth of new shoots in the future. While the bush has not yet bloomed, remove the top so that it grows in breadth.
Instructions for planting and caring for basil at home
1. The beginning of March is most suitable for planting, then you do not have to highlight the plants. Take the seeds and soak them for a couple of hours in a solution of potassium permanganate. Prepare a pot of soil as described above. Plant the seeds, retreating from each other by 3-5 centimeters, sprinkle them with about one centimeter of earth.
2. Then close the pot with a plastic bag or cap, remove this "greenhouse" only when the first shoots appear. Keep the seed pot in a warm place.
3. After removing the lid, move the sprouts to a well-lit area. If you planted seeds in the autumn, artificial lighting is necessary for a young bush. To do this, use a fluorescent lamp, directing it to the sprouts 8-10 hours a day. This procedure will accelerate the growth of plants.
4. When the sprouts are longer and the second corolla of leaves appears, plant the plants in individual larger containers.
5. From this stage, it is necessary to increase the artificial illumination time to 12 hours. Plants should not be watered and fed too abundantly. When the third corolla of leaves appears, once every 7 days in the morning or afternoon, spray the young basil with water at a comfortable temperature.
Varieties of basil
For growing at home, you can use any type of basil, but it is best to take varieties with miniature leaves (Dwarf, Marquis, Basilisk).
Varieties vary in leaf color and fragrance, so choose a plant that suits your taste. Basil gives cooked dishes a special flavor, the notes of which vary according to the variety.
Yerevan. Its leaves are saturated blue tint, smell of tea and allspice.
Baku. The leaves are purple-brown and give clove and mint notes to food.
Spoon-shaped. The leaves are green, smell of laurel and cloves.
Now you know how to grow basil on a windowsill. Growing a basil bush at home will not be difficult if you follow the above care rules. Do not be lazy to take care of the plant, then it will delight you excellent harvest spicy leaves!
Basil - unpretentious culture, which can be grown at home throughout the year. But since this plant is of tropical origin, in order to get a crop, certain conditions must be created for it. Therefore, before you start planting, you should figure out how to grow basil on the windowsill. For this purpose, it is desirable to use low-growing varieties: Clove, Marquis, Dwarf, Yerevan, Lemon or Purple.
Unique properties of basil
Basil is widely used in medicine and cooking. He has many positive properties. The plant has an analgesic, antiseptic, bactericidal, diaphoretic, antispasmodic and expectorant effect on the body.
Basil is a universal home remedy that relieves many symptoms.
Basil is used in the treatment of:
- bronchitis;
- asthma;
- tuberculosis;
- urolithiasis;
- hyperemia (increase in the amount of blood supplied to any part of the body);
- cardiovascular and skin diseases;
- conjunctivitis;
- gastroenteritis;
- rheumatism;
- measles;
- headaches;
- caries;
- tartar and plaque;
- pathologies resulting from radiation damage.
In addition, basil strengthens the immune system well.
Not surprisingly, many growers prefer to grow basil indoors. Indeed, the composition of the plant contains a large amount of potassium, due to which its use helps to lower blood pressure.
There is a positive effect of basil on the emotional state of a person. The plant helps reduce stress, reduce feelings of nervousness and anxiety. Vitamin A, C, essential mass and phytonutrients included in its composition rid the body of free radicals and help prolong youth.
However, basil also has negative characteristics. Its overdose can provoke poisoning. When in contact with mucous membranes, the plant causes irritation. Its use is contraindicated during pregnancy, with vein thrombosis and bleeding disorders. Thus, despite the wide list of positive properties of this plant, it is strongly not recommended to use it without consulting a doctor.
In cooking, basil is used in the preparation of ketchups, sauces, dressings, gravy, sandwich oil. It is added to products in the process of smoking and canning. It improves the taste characteristics of sausages, pâtés, omelettes, salads.
This plant pairs well with parsley, tarragon, mint, coriander, and marjoram. But it should be borne in mind that basil has a fairly rich aroma that can kill the smells of other spices. Therefore, it should be used in moderation.
How to grow basil from cuttings in an apartment or house?
There are several methods by which you can plant basil at home. Cuttings are perhaps the fastest of them, because it allows you to get greens in two weeks.
Cuttings - a simple and reliable method of growing basil
Cuttings are cut from a basil bush. When buying a plant, you need to make sure that it is not wilted. Basil does not need to have roots. You will also need a knife or scissors, water (+25°C) and a glass jar.
Landing is as follows:
For culinary purposes, leaves are used, which are cut when the height of the plant reaches 15 cm. The life expectancy of such a bush is 3–4 months.
Important! Cuttings must be protected from sunlight, as as a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, plants can get burned and die.
Soil and pot requirements
Basil needs fertile and light soil. In a specialized store you can find a ready-made soil mixture. In this case, carry out preliminary training no need. But if soil mix prepared at home, it must be poured with a solution of 1 liter of water and 1/8 tsp. potassium sulfate, urea or superphosphate.
Take care of the correct composition of the soil and drainage of the pot
Soil for basil may consist of the following components:
- humus, earth and peat, mixed in equal proportions;
- one part of coconut fibers and two parts of humus;
- compost and earth (2:1);
- peat and humus (2:1).
It is advisable to place the soil for 60 minutes in an oven preheated to 100 ° C. After that, the earth is watered with fertilizers. When planting basil, drainage is required, which is laid on the bottom of the pot with a layer of 3 cm:
- small pebbles;
- coarse sand;
- gravel;
- crushed stone;
- expanded clay.
The plant is planted in pots with a volume of 1.5 liters.
Important! When growing basil, be sure to use drainage, as excessive soil moisture can cause disease.
External conditions
Basil is a heat-loving crop, so it should be grown at 22–25°C. Pots are placed on the south side. Also, the plant needs good lighting for up to 15 hours a day. You can provide the necessary conditions with the help of fluorescent or halogen lamps.
Basil loves the sun and heat
But at the same time, it is necessary to take into account the features of these devices. Halogen lamps are a source of not only light, but also heat. In this regard, it is recommended to use such lighting elements in the cold season or in the case of growing basil on the balcony.
Growing basil from seeds at home: step by step instructions
The development of basil bushes grown from seeds will take from 8 months to a year. But the advantage of this method is that it takes much longer to get greens from such a plant than when using cuttings.
Growing basil from seeds is a labor intensive process.
To plant seeds, you need to prepare:
- drainage;
- a container 15 cm deep or a pot with a capacity of 1.5–2 liters;
- soil mixture, which is prepared in the same way as in the previous version;
- shoulder blade
- plastic bag or cling film.
The sequence of actions is as follows:
- Work is recommended to start with the preparation of seeds. This stage is not considered mandatory, but it allows you to speed up the appearance of sprouts. Seeds are soaked in water (25°C) for two days. At the same time, every 12 hours, the fluid is replaced.
- Thereafter planting material immersed in a solution of potassium permanganate. This should be a low concentration light pink composition in which the seeds are kept for two hours. After that, they are removed from the water on a napkin and dried.
- Next, drainage is poured into a container or pot, and prepared soil is poured on top. At the same time, 3–4 cm should be left between the surface of the soil and the edge of the container. The earth is leveled and watered well.
- Then proceed to sowing the seeds. They are deepened by 1–2 cm, keeping the distance between plants at 8–10 mm.
- The containers are covered with a film or a transparent plastic lid to achieve a greenhouse effect. Pots are placed on a well-lit window sill. Every day the film is opened for 10 minutes to ensure ventilation of the basil.
- After 8-12 days, the first shoots will appear. After that, the film is removed, and the temperature in the room is lowered to 16-20°C. This is necessary to prevent overstretching of the plants.
- When the sprouts reach a height of 5–7 cm, add 2–3 cm of soil to the pot. This will help strengthen the seedlings.
After removing the film, the basil needs to be provided with regular and timely care. The temperature in the room should be maintained within 20-25°C. At the germination stage, the soil is moistened every two days. Watering should be moderate. Feeding during this period the plant is not required. The nutrients introduced into the soil mixture are enough to ensure the full development of the basil.
Video: method of sowing basil seeds
How to transplant an adult plant into a pot in anticipation of winter?
Basil transplantation is carried out when growing a crop in open field. In this case, in August or September, the plant must be moved to a pot so that it does not suffer during the cold period. Soil composition prepared in the same way as when planting cuttings. The volume of the pot should reach 2 liters.
Basil is transplanted to protect against winter frosts.
The transplant has the following features:
- First, a drainage layer is laid in the pot. Then they are filled with soil, in which a recess is made, where water is poured.
- When moisture is absorbed, the bush is carefully dug up, removed along with an earthen clod and moved to a pot. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the roots are not damaged or bent.
- The plant is covered with soil and slightly compacted. If during the transplantation some parts of the bush were damaged, they should be cut off.
culture care
You need to start caring for the plant immediately after removing the film. Timely implementation of all measures will allow you to grow a healthy culture.
Watering
Watering basil depends on temperature conditions. In warm weather, the procedure is carried out daily. On hot days, the frequency of watering should be 2 times a day. The bushes are moistened in the morning and at lunchtime, using a spray watering can for this purpose.
The watering rate is determined by the condition of the soil - it should be moderately moist (so that the water does not stagnate in the pot pan).
It is undesirable to water the plant in the evening. This rule is due to the fact that at night a cool temperature is set in the room. As a result, the evaporation of water from the soil slows down and the likelihood of developing bush diseases increases.
fertilizers
If basil was used when planting fertile soil, there is no need to feed it, since it is an annual plant with a short growing season. For the development of bushes, there will be enough substances introduced initially into the substrate. If the seeds or cuttings were planted in ordinary garden soil, then the basil should be fertilized once a month.
Fertilizer will help the plant get nutrients from ordinary soil.
The plant is being watered nutrient solution, which is prepared from 2 liters of water and 1 cap of Rost. Also, Agrolife fertilizer is added to the top layer of the substrate (1 tsp per pot).
pruning
Pruning is done to stimulate the development of side shoots. The procedure consists in removing the top of the bush at the level of 6-8 leaves. It is carried out 15-20 days after the emergence of seedlings. You should also eliminate all flowering shoots immediately after they appear. This will increase the branching of the basil, help retain the aroma, and help extend the life of the plant.
Pruning basil will help it grow in breadth.
Other features
- In autumn and winter time pots are recommended to wrap polyethylene film. This will help protect the plant from drafts.
- In the period from October to February, the basilica needs to be additionally illuminated in the evening. Lamps are installed at a distance of 20 cm from the bushes.
- On cloudy days, the plant needs artificial lighting.
- You can grow basil all year round. But in order for the plant to receive a sufficient amount of natural light during the growth period, it is advised to plant in March.
- When the size of the bushes reaches 15 cm, you can harvest. At this stage, the formation of the stem is completed, so the loss of leaves will not affect the development of the basil.
Important! Basil must be protected from drafts.
Pests and diseases
Aphids are dangerous among pests. It provokes the appearance of such symptoms:
- leaves are deformed, lose their color and curl;
- the growth of the bushes is suspended, and the stems are bent.
As a treatment, spraying with Decis (1 g per 5 l) or Fitoverm (4 ml per 20 l) is carried out. To prevent a pest attack, you must follow the rules of care.
Basil, which is grown at home, is much less likely to be exposed to ailments and pests than bushes growing in the open field. But violation of the rules of care can provoke the occurrence of diseases.
Table: basil diseases
| Diseases | Signs of defeat | Fighting methods | Prevention |
| Fusarium |
| When the first signs appear, spraying the bushes with Topsin-M, Vitaros, Fundazol or Previkur (2 g per 1 liter of water). At severe defeat the plant must be destroyed. |
|
| Blackleg |
| Soil treatment with colloidal sulfur (4 g per 1 liter). Spraying basil with Fitosporin solution (4 drops per 200 ml of water). | |
| Gray rot |
| The use of the drug Teldor (5 g per 5 liters of water), Alirin-B (2 tablets per 1 liter). |
Common mistakes gardeners make
Errors in growing bushes and harvesting can cause disease and death of the plant. Basil should not be overly moistened. When watering it is necessary to avoid stagnant water.
Some gardeners break off stems when harvesting. This should not be done, as the plant will dry out. You can only collect leaves.
Another mistake is tearing off the basil. This can damage the stem. Therefore, the leaves should be cut with scissors.
When growing basil, you should take into account its need for warmth and good lighting. It must also be remembered that the plant does not tolerate excessive watering and drafts. Compliance with these rules will help grow this tropical crop on the windowsill and get a good harvest.
Hello. The age of greenery is short-lived, no matter how hard you try. To flavor the dish in winter and in early spring you have to use purchased dried herbs. But green fragrant bushes can be grown on your windowsill. And so the whole year to supply yourself with useful spices. Today you will learn how to grow basil at home. Unpretentious basil, with a pleasant aroma, was first cultivated in India and Iran. In ancient times, it was considered a medicinal plant due to its properties.
A little about varieties
Before you run to the store in search of seeds, decide on the desired variety of basil. Their number exceeds more than 150 varieties, and not all are suitable for growing at home. To grow basil on a windowsill, pay attention to the following varieties:
- Basil ordinary purple color. The variety is characterized by a pleasant peppery-clove aroma and a pronounced spicy taste. It is used fresh and dried in salads, preserves and marinades. Unpretentious in care.
- Purple basil Yerevan. Gives 2-3 crops per season. It has a tart taste of tea and fragrant pepper. It will be a great addition to soups, salads, fish and meat dishes and sauces.
- Purple tulsi basil. It is used in India for rituals and cooking spicy dishes.
- Vietnamese is ideal as an ingredient in salads and other dishes due to its intense aroma and sweet aftertaste.
- Italian (or Genoese) has a very strong anise flavor, making it a must-have addition to Italian pesto. If you are a lover Italian pasta and other dishes of this cuisine, feel free to grow it at home. It grows well in indoor pots.
Basil is also classified by aroma. After all, the culinary use of spices depends on the aroma. So, basil with anise flavor goes well with vegetables and fish dishes, and the spice with the aroma of lemon, pepper and cloves will “sound” perfectly in meat dishes.
For lovers of the aroma of cloves, varieties such as Smuglyanka, Clove Aroma, Spring mood and Dark night. The following varieties have a clove-pepper aroma: Basilisk, Fantazer and Marquis. The following varieties differ in peppery aroma: Compatto, Aramis, Rosie, Orion and Ruby. To grow lemon-flavored basil at home, pay attention to the following varieties: Iskra, Lemon Basil and Novinka. The aroma of menthol is represented by the variety Velvet. To flavor sweets in a confectionery, the Vanilla Aroma variety is used.
How to grow basil
This spice can be grown at home in several ways: from young shoots or seeds. Both methods are good, but in order to enjoy basil all year round, it is better to grow the spice from seeds.
You can start growing basil at any time of the year. But most optimum time spring is considered for cultivation. So, when the desired variety is selected, the seeds are bought, and on the street the month of April, you can start sowing.
Basil bushes grow rather big and need a lot of space, so it is better to sow the seeds in long flower boxes so as not to torment yourself with transplants. The soil for sowing seeds can be taken from the usual garden or vegetable garden, fertilizing it with universal fertilizer for vegetables.
Do not sow the seeds too deep, this prevents the rapid emergence of seedlings. Between the seeds, leave an indent 10 cm wide. When sprouts appear and reach a height of 5 cm, you need to loosen the soil every 3 days. Loosening is a prerequisite for indoor grown spices, it enriches the soil with oxygen.
Basil prefers moderately moist soil. Water it every morning, if the weather is hot and dry, watering can be done twice, adding watering at lunchtime.
Basil comes from the subtropics and reaches for the sun, so place the box with the crops on a sunny windowsill. Keep the temperature around +25 degrees. If you keep a box of basil on the balcony and are afraid that it lacks heat, wrap it with plastic wrap.
All plants are prone to diseases and pest attacks, basil is no exception. Greenhouse plantings of basil get sick less often than those planted in a vegetable garden or garden, but you need to know the enemy by sight. Basil has a tendency to catch gray mold and Fusarium. To prevent these diseases, monitor the amount of watering, it is excessive watering that causes these diseases. If you see damaged stems, remove them to avoid infecting healthy bushes.
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