Herbs can help life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an super way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes. Unknown to most, basil is really a member of the mint family! Sweet Basil is the most popular grown basil plant but it grows in a host of other varieties. This herb is well known for flavoring foods and in its long past has been used for folk remedies.

Folklore-

Growing basil has a special significance in many cultures throughout the world. The people of India swore their oaths in court on basil leaves. Italian lovers would wear a piece of basil in their hair when courting ladies. The Mexicans thought it would bring back a cheating lover if you walked around carrying basil.

Medicinal use-

Growing basil provides 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.

Sow the seed in a warm time of year, about 1″ apart. When the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be replanted. But, always make sure the last frost has past.

Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Watering should take place one day per week, before noon. 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 two weeks to increase the health of the plant. Clip leaves back to about a quarter inch above a node and leave enough foliage for continued growth. Deadhead any flower stems to keep the plant in production.

It’s 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 2 plants go well together. Basil also acts as a natural insect repellent, either in the home kitchen, or to keep pests away from other plants.

After 6” of growth, the top leaves are ready to be pinched off. Basil plants can grow to approximately two feet tall. Growing basil not only adds to your culinary delights, it is delightful addition in the garden.

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