Growing holy basil from seed is a great way to save money.
Holy basil can be expensive in the grocery store, but it’s easy and inexpensive to grow at home! You don’t need any special equipment or supplies either. Just follow these simple steps and you will have your own supply of fresh herbs for cooking in no time!
Once you get started growing your own holy basil, you won’t want to stop! It tastes so much better than what you can buy in stores, plus it makes your kitchen smell amazing too. Plus, there are many health benefits associated with this herb that make it even more valuable. Start growing today and experience all the benefits for yourself!
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
When is the Best Time of the Year to Plant Holy Basil
Since Holy Basil is a warm-weather plant, the best time to plant it is after the last frost of spring or early summer. This would be around May through July. Planting before this may result in smaller plants. However, you can grow Holy Basil all year round indoors as long as it has access to sunlight and warmth (20-25 degrees Celsius).
Where in the Garden Should You Plant Holy Basil
When it comes to growing holy basil, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. First of all, you should make sure that you have plenty of sunlight. Holy basil needs at least six hours of sunlight per day. Secondly, you should make sure that the soil is well-drained. Holy basil doesn’t do well in wet soil. To ensure that the soil is well-drained, make sure you add gravel or sand to the garden.
You should plant holy basil in an area where you will be able to keep it in a pot. Holy basil can grow up to two feet in height and it’s quite busy, so if you want to keep it in your garden you will need to give it at least six square feet of space. If you are planning to grow holy basil in a container, make sure that the pot has plenty of room for growth.
How Often Should I Watering Holy Basil
The soil should be always at least half an inch wet. But if you water it every day, the soil will remain moist all the time.
Watering holy basil is to be done in the morning or evening every day because, during that time, heat and sunlight are not present yet which may cause leaves to wilt.
If you are going to be on vacation for a week or so, it is best to have someone water your holy basil for you. Holy basil can also do well with a little bit of neglect, but it is not recommended.
A wilted leaf means the plant is thirsty and needs water immediately. On the other hand, if the leaves of your holy basil are yellow, it means that you did not water it enough. When the roots of the holy basil get very dry, they will be absorbed by soil and ornaments. And if this happens or if bug infestation occurs, it is better to completely cut off the dead part of the holy basil after taking out all the soil.
When and How to Harvest Holy Basil
Holy basil is best harvested in the morning when it has dew on its leaves. Pick the stems with leaves intact, taking care to leave some behind so that the plant can continue to grow and produce more leaves for you to harvest again.
When you first plant holy basil sprouts, allow the leaves to grow for a few weeks without clipping them. This gives your plant time to establish itself and promote root growth. Once you’re ready to start harvesting, simply pick from the outside of the plant and cut off about an inch from the stem. Holy basil can be harvested multiple times a year, but it’s best to leave at least six inches of growth on the plant so it can continue to produce leaves.
Different Ways to Store Holy Basil
There are a few different ways that you can store Holy Basil. One way is to dry the leaves and store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze the leaves or put them in a refrigerator. It is important to note that if you choose to freeze or refrigerate the leaves, they will only last about 7 days. Once they are frozen it is recommended that you put them in an air-tight freezer bag with all of the excess air removed this allows for their maximum storage potential.
Once dried the Holy Basil can be stored in an airtight container until needed. It’s best to keep the leaves in a dark, room temperature place for optimal freshness. This can be done by putting them in an airtight container and placing it on the back of your refrigerator or other darkroom temperature spot.
One way to preserve Holy Basil is by making Holy Basil oil. The oil does not go bad with time because it is usually kept at room temperature or slightly above. When you are making the Holy Basil oil, be sure to use only organic Holy Basil leaves with no pesticides. You also want to avoid wilted leaves as these will most likely upset your stomach if ingested. It is important to note that the leaves are only good for one year if properly stored. If you notice any abnormalities in your Holy Basil oil, discard it immediately.
Other Things of Interest about Holy Basil
- Holy Basil is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in India for its healing properties.
- Holy Basil is said to help improve your mood and relieve stress. Source
- Holy Basil is a rich source of antioxidants and other beneficial phytochemicals. Source
- Holy Basil may help to improve your overall health and well-being.
- Holy Basil can be used fresh or dried and can be added to food or taken as a supplement.
- Holy Basil is easy to grow and can be grown in your garden or in a pot on your windowsill.
- Holy Basil is a delicious herb that can be added to food or drinks for a refreshing taste.
- Holy Basil can be taken in supplement form, but it is also available fresh or dried and can be added to teas, smoothies, or other recipes.
- Holy Basil is a safe and effective herb that can be used to treat a variety of health conditions.
Conclusion: Holy basil can be expensive in the grocery store, but it’s easy and inexpensive to grow at home! You don’t need any special equipment or supplies either. Just follow these simple steps and you will have your own supply of fresh herbs for cooking in no time!