AGRILABH HERB BASIL PURPLE

Ocimum basilicum L., commonly known by many as “purple basil” is an easy-to-grow aromatic herb with a sweet, spicy flavor.Plant seeds of this basil in a light, well-draining soil that’s amended with well-composted materials. Allow 3 to 14 days for germination. Move into a partially sunny spot as leaves develop. Keep the soil consistently moist while germinating, but not wet, as young plants may damp off and fail.

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• Purple 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: Purple 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 purple 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:

• Purple basil, like other basil varieties, 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 purple 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 purple 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.