How to Plant Tulsi Tree at Home

Tulsi or Holy Basil is a sacred herb in India with numerous health benefits. It is also known for its religious, spiritual and cultural significance. Growing Tulsi at home is quite easy and simple. In this article, we will guide you on how to plant Tulsi tree at home.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting Tulsi at home is to choose the right location. Tulsi requires plenty of sunlight, so pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. The location should also have well-drained soil and should not get waterlogged easily. If you plan to grow Tulsi in a pot, make sure it has sufficient drainage holes at the bottom.

Prepare the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil. Tulsi prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. You can test your soil's pH level using a soil tester kit, which is easily available at any gardening store or online. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add organic matter like compost, decayed leaves or peat moss to lower the pH level. Mix the organic matter well with the soil to ensure it is evenly distributed.

Plant the Tulsi Seeds

Now that you have chosen the right location and prepared the soil, it is time to plant the Tulsi seeds. You can either start with seeds or cuttings, but seeds are easier to plant. You can buy Tulsi seeds from any gardening store or online. Make sure to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to increase germination rates.

Plant the seeds about ? inch deep into the soil, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil gently, and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 1-2 weeks. If you plant Tulsi in a pot, make sure the pot is big enough to accommodate the growing plant. A pot of at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep is ideal for growing Tulsi.

Caring for the Tulsi Plant

Once the Tulsi plant has germinated, caring for it is quite easy. Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it. Tulsi prefers slightly moist soil, but too much water can cause the roots to rot. You can also add organic fertilizers like neem cake or vermicompost once a month to promote healthy growth.

Pruning the plant regularly will help promote bushy growth, and prevent it from getting too leggy. Pinch off the tips of the plant when it reaches a height of about 6 inches to promote side branching. Tulsi is also prone to pest attacks, so make sure to check the plant regularly for aphids, whiteflies or spider mites. You can treat these pests with organic insecticides or neem oil.

Conclusion

Growing Tulsi at home is not only easy, but also rewarding. With its numerous health benefits and cultural significance, Tulsi is more than just a herb. By following these simple steps, you can plant Tulsi at home and enjoy its benefits all year round. Happy gardening!