Essential Survival Gear Catalog

Herbs can benefit life in many ways. Growing basil (or Ocimum basilicum) is an excellent addition to your flourishing herb garden. I am pleased to introduce, Basil, a sweet herb, member of the Mint Family. Although there is a few different varieties of basil, sweet basil is the most popular and well known. When it comes to old age herbal remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.

Folklore-

Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to societies all over the world. Indians swore oaths with basil leaves in court. To signify love, Italian suitors wore a sprig of basil in their hair when they courted their ladies. The Mexicans thought it would bring back a cheating lover if you walked around carrying basil.

Medicinal use-

Growing basil can provide major health benefits. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally packed with vitamin A. Basil, is a cure-all herb that can treat many disorders and ailments from headaches to indigestion. There are so many benefits derived from basil, that it is known as the ‘King of Herbs’.

How to Grow Basil-

Growing basil can be childs-play. You can grow basil plants started from seed inside the house before transplanting into the garden. It can even be full grown indoors if preferred. If you decide to do this, remember the plant needs sunlight, so a man-made alternative should be used, like fluorescent growing lighting.

The seeds should be sown about 1” from each other, in a warm time of year. After a few leaves have grown, the basil can then be re-planted. Make certain you wait until a late frost is no longer a threat.

Add layer of mulch of about three inches. Organic mulch is an excellent choice. Water about once a week, preferably in the morning. Do not over fertilize because this action diminishes the unique fragrance of the plant.

Plant the herbs at least 16 – 20 inches apart to grow a good- sized plant. For growing basil, it has essentially 2 requirements, well-drained soil, and a sunny, moist area.

Prune at least every 2 weeks to increase the health of the plant. Clip leaves back to around a quarter inch above a node and leave enough foliage for continued growth. Deadhead any flower stems to keep the plant in production.

It is a good idea when growing basil, to plant it near your tomato vines. Both of these plants require above average sunlight, and watering, so it is convenient to place them close to each other. Just like in your famous spaghetti sauce, these two plants go well together. Basil is a big help around the kitchen and helps to repel insects in the garden.

Once the basil plant has reached 6″ high, you can start to pinch off the top sets of leaves. This herb has been known to reach heights of up to 24 inches. Growing basil is a big benefit to both your garden and your household.