AGRILABH HERB BASIL GREEN SEED

Basil green (Ocimum basilicum) has a strong smell and flavour. Basil is an excellent in raw summer salads.,Basil will grow best in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily, though it can perform well in partial sun, too. Soil should be moderately fertile and moist but well-draining. Basil works great in containers or raised beds, as these allow for better drainage.

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• Green basil seeds
• Seedling trays or pots
• Seed starting mix or potting soil
• Plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid
• Grow lights or a sunny location
• Watering can or spray bottle
• Fertilizer (optional)

2. Timing: Green basil can be grown indoors or directly in your garden. If starting indoors, plant the seeds 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date in the spring. If planting directly in the garden, wait until after the last frost date.

3. Planting Seeds:

• Fill seedling trays or pots with a good-quality seed starting mix or potting soil.
• Plant green basil seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them 2-3 inches apart.
• Water the soil gently to ensure it’s evenly moist but not waterlogged.

4. Create a Mini Greenhouse:

• Cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to create a greenhouse-like environment. This helps retain moisture and warmth, promoting germination.

5. Provide Proper Lighting:

• Basil, including green basil, requires plenty of light. If you’re growing them indoors, place them in a sunny window or use grow lights.
• Aim for 12-16 hours of light per day.

6. Germination:

• Basil seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days.
• Once the seedlings have two true leaves, remove the plastic cover.

7. Transplant or Thin:

• If you started your basil indoors, transplant the seedlings into larger pots or directly into your garden when they are 4-6 weeks old and have a few sets of true leaves.
• Space the seedlings 8-12 inches apart in the garden.

8. Soil Preparation:

• Ensure the soil in your garden or pots is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
• Basil prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0.

9. Watering and Care:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Basil is sensitive to overwatering.
• Pinch off the growing tips of the plants regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering. This keeps the leaves flavorful.
• Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks if your soil lacks nutrients.

10. Pest and Disease Management:

• Monitor your green basil for pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods as needed.
• Basil is generally resistant to diseases, but keep an eye out for any issues and address them promptly.

11. Harvesting:

• You can start harvesting green basil leaves once the plant has reached a reasonable size, usually about 6-8 inches tall.
• Harvest leaves regularly by pinching off the top sets of leaves. This encourages bushy growth and prevents the plant from going to seed.

Growing green basil from seeds is relatively easy, and you can enjoy its fresh, aromatic leaves in a wide range of culinary dishes, from pesto to salads to pasta sauces.

FAQ

What are the health benefits of basil green?
Basil green is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.

How do you grow basil green?
Plant basil seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil, providing full sun and regular watering.

When is the best time to plant basil green?
The best time to plant basil green is in the spring after the last frost or in early summer.

How long does it take for basil green seeds to germinate?
Basil green seeds typically take 5 to 10 days to germinate under optimal conditions.

What pests commonly affect basil green plants?
Common pests affecting basil green plants include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.