How to Care for Basil Plant in Pot

Basil is a wonderful herb that can be grown easily in pots, making it an ideal choice for beginners who want to start growing their own herbs. It is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in different cuisines around the world. If you are planning to grow basil plant in pot, here are some care tips that you need to keep in mind.

Choose the right pot

The first step in growing basil plant in pot is to choose the right size of the pot. The pot should be big enough to accommodate the size of the plant as it grows. You can choose a pot with a diameter of at least 8 inches or more. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid water logging.

Provide proper sunlight

Basil plant requires plenty of sunlight to grow well. It needs at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. Make sure to place the pot in a location with plenty of sunlight. You can also grow basil in a sunny window so that it gets enough sunlight each day. If sunlight is not enough, you can use artificial lights to supplement it.

Water the plant regularly

Basil plant needs regular watering to thrive. You need to ensure that the soil is moist at all times, but not water logged. Water the plant whenever the soil feels dry to touch. Over watering can lead to root rot and kill the plant. Water the plant in the morning so that it gets a chance to dry out during the day.

Use quality potting soil

The quality of the soil is crucial to the growth of the plant. Use high-quality potting soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining to avoid water logging. You can add some compost to the soil before planting to improve its quality.

Fertilize the plant

Basil plant needs to be fertilized regularly to provide the required nutrients for growth. You can use a liquid fertilizer once a month or use slow-release fertilizer pellets. Be careful not to over fertilize the plant as it can lead to excessive growth and poor flavor.

Prune the plant regularly

Regular pruning will encourage the growth of more leaves and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. When the plant reaches a height of about 6 inches, prune the top two leaves and the node below it. This will encourage more side shoots to grow and increase the yield of the plant.

Conclusion

Basil is an easy-to-grow herb that can be grown in pots by beginners. Follow the above tips to care for your basil plant to ensure that it grows healthy and strong. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh basil leaves in your dishes throughout the year.