The Best Types of Basil to Grow Indoors
There are many varieties of basil, each with its own unique scent and size. The flavors range from clove to cinnamon, lemon, and citrus. All basil types are suitable for indoor cultivation, but specialized compact, disease-resistant seeds will help you make the most of your space.
Best Setup for Planting Basil Indoors
Containers
It’s best to use a self-watering ceramic planter, a water reservoir pot, or any pot that holds at least ¼ pint.
Soil
Use a standard potting mix.
Plant Food
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At the beginning: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK such as 10-10-10).
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Ongoing: Switch to a fertilizer higher in nitrogen (NPK such as 5-5-10).
Grow Light
Basil needs a strong grow light that provides the equivalent of 6+ hours of direct sunlight.
Preparing a Planting and Watering Schedule for Basil
Planting Basil Seeds
Basil grows well in moist soil. If the soil dries out completely, the roots will die and the plant will struggle to recover. On the other hand, if the roots sit in stagnant water for too long, they may rot.
A self-watering ceramic pot filled with standard potting mix helps keep soil evenly moist so the plant can grow and thrive.
Steps:
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Fill the planter with dry soil straight from the bag and gently press the top.
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Transfer the soil to a large mixing container and add water until it is moist but not soaked (about half a cup).
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Mix in 1 tablespoon of balanced plant fertilizer.
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If using a regular pot, choose one at least ¼ liter in size with drainage holes to prevent overwatering. Allow the top of the soil to dry between waterings.
Starting Basil
You can grow new basil plants from seeds, propagate them from an existing plant, or buy them live from garden centers. Growing from seed or stem cuttings helps the plant adapt to your environment and reduces the risk of bringing pests home.
How to Plant Basil Seeds
Basil grows quickly from seeds. Plant seeds in 5 spots in a ¼-liter container. In larger pots, plant two seeds together in each spot, about ¼ inch deep.
Keep the soil warm (65–85°F), with 70°F being ideal. Sprouts usually appear within 5 days but may take anywhere from 3 to 7 days.
How to Propagate Basil From a Stem Cutting
If you already have a basil plant you love, you can clone it using sharp scissors and a clean glass of water.
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Cut 6-inch shoots from fresh growth (avoid woody stems).
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Remove the lower leaves so the bottom half is bare, then place the stem in a 3-inch cup of water, ensuring the leaf nodes are submerged.
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Place the cup on a bright windowsill and change the water every few days.
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Within about two weeks, roots should appear, and you can transplant the cutting into its pot.
Rooting hormone can help, but it is not necessary for basil.
How to Pot Live Basil Plants
see continuation on next page
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