Fresh, fragrant, and a staple of Mediterranean cuisine: we’re talking about basil. To grow it strong, lush, and always beautiful, it’s best to plant it in an unusual place. Here’s where.
Basil: The Essentials
The basil plant is an annual that thrives in sunlight and mild climates. It can be sown during the spring season and allowed to grow vigorously. The small leaves of the basil plant love direct light and prefer temperatures above 15 degrees Celsius. For successful cultivation, it’s essential to know the expert tips from experienced gardeners to ensure the basil grows lushly and remains free from pests and insects. There is an unusual place, not known to many, where basil can be planted and left to germinate effectively.
What You Need to Know About Basil
The quintessential aromatic herb and the queen of Ligurian cuisine, basil is a key ingredient in pesto Genovese. Scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum, it belongs to the Lamiaceae family.
Basil leaves are used to add flavor to various dishes, including pizza. Beyond its culinary uses, this cultivar is a favorite among gardeners for fragrancing their gardens. Additionally, basil is known to repel insects.
There are several varieties of basil to cultivate, including Genovese basil, purple basil, licorice basil, and mint basil, among others. The basil plant can reach up to 60 centimeters in height and produce flowers that are either pink or white.
Nutritional Properties of Basil Leaves
Not everyone knows that using basil leaves in cooking provides a wealth of nutritional benefits. Basil is rich in minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. It has a negligible caloric content and a low glycemic index.
How to Cultivate Basil
Basil can be grown both in the garden and in pots on the balcony. The seeds should be planted and covered with a layer of soil. As mentioned, basil should be sown in the spring, particularly at the beginning of April, to ensure robust germination. The soil where basil is planted should be fertilized with nutritive substances to stimulate healthy growth. Gardeners recommend using natural fertilizers such as brewer’s yeast and coffee grounds. Fertilization should occur twice a year: once during the spring season and once during the autumn season.
Growing Basil at Home
The Ideal Position for Lush Basil
There is an unusual place to cultivate basil: your balcony or garden area with direct sunlight. Indeed, basil leaves prefer warmth and mild climates. They dislike shade and cold temperatures. A good tip is to repot the basil plant into a small to medium-sized black pot. Water it regularly to ensure the soil does not dry out too quickly.
Harvesting Basil
Once the basil leaves are lush and beautiful, it’s time to harvest them for making pesto or for garnishing and flavoring dishes.
With these tips, you can cultivate and harvest basil leaves all year round. Your pesto supply is guaranteed!
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