How to Plant Basil in Small Pot

Basil is a sweet-smelling herb that has become increasingly popular for use in cooking, home remedies, and even as decoration. If you live in an apartment, or if you don't have a lot of yard space, don't despair. You can still grow basil, even if you have limited outdoor space. In this article, we outline how to plant basil in a small pot.

Choose Your Pot

The first step in planting basil in a small pot is to choose the right pot. Basil needs room to spread, so choose a pot that is at least 6-8 inches deep to give the roots plenty of room to grow. The diameter of the pot should be at least 8 inches as basil needs room to spread out its leaves. The pot should also have drainage holes in the bottom.

Soil Selection

Basil prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. A good potting mix, mixed with vermiculite or perlite, is a good choice. Basil also likes slightly acidic soil, which can be achieved by adding a handful of sphagnum peat to the potting mix.

Planting the Basil

To plant the basil, fill the pot with soil until it is about half full. Then, gently remove the basil plant from its original container and place it in the middle of the pot. Add soil around the plant, making sure to cover the entire root ball. Gently press the soil down to make sure it is firm around the plant.

Light and Watering

Basil needs plenty of light, so it's important to put the pot in a sunny location. A south-facing window is ideal. Basil also needs consistent watering, so it's important to keep the pot evenly moist. Touch the soil to see whether it's dry or moist. Water the basil when the soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure to water the plant slowly and avoid pouring the water directly on the leaves.

Maintenance

To keep your basil healthy, make sure to pinch off any small leaves that are growing between the larger leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow stronger and fuller. As the basil grows taller, you may want to trim the top a few inches to encourage bushier growth. Make sure to also fertilize the basil every two weeks with an organic plant food.

Conclusion

Basil is a wonderful herb that can be grown in small pots for those who don't have a lot of outdoor space. By choosing the right pot and soil, planting the basil properly, and providing the correct amount of light and water, you'll be able to enjoy fresh, homegrown basil all year round.