Basil
Can you imagine a garden without basil? Most of us can’t. With its rich fragrance, easy care and endless uses in the kitchen, basil truly earns its nickname as the “king of herbs.”
Sweet basil’s botanical name, Ocimum basilicum, reflects its importance. “Ocimum” comes from a Greek word meaning to be fragrant and “basilicum” comes from basileus, meaning king.
Basil belongs to the mint family, which explains its square stems and clustered flowers. Thankfully, it’s far less aggressive and invasive than mint.
In warm climates, basil can grow as a perennial. In most other areas, it’s treated as an annual and will not survive frost. There are more than 30 species of basil, but sweet basil (O. basilicum) is the most widely grown.
How to Grow Basil Successfully
Basil thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Without enough sun, plants can become tall and leggy.
It prefers light, fertile, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in organic matter before planting to improve drainage and root development.
When transplanting, wait until all danger of frost has passed since basil is very sensitive to cold. Set plants at the same depth they were growing in their pots and water thoroughly after planting.
Spacing Guidelines
- Standard varieties: 10–12 inches apart
- Dwarf varieties: 8–10 inches apart
- Large varieties (like ‘Sweet Dani’): up to 20 inches apart
Giving plants enough space improves airflow and encourages strong growth.
Caring for Basil
Basil is low-maintenance but benefits from consistent care.
- Water: Provide about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply during dry spells.
- Fertilizer: If soil was enriched with compost, extra fertilizer may not be necessary. In sandy or poor soils, light feeding can support steady growth.
- Pinching & Pruning: Remove flower spikes as they appear. Flowering reduces leaf production and flavor.
For the best harvest, cut entire stems instead of individual leaves. Snip just above a pair of lower leaves—this encourages the plant to branch and grow fuller.
Using Basil in the Garden
Basil is both edible and ornamental. Its lush green or deep purple foliage adds beauty to beds and containers alike.
Plant it:
- In herb or vegetable gardens
- Alongside tomatoes and lettuces
- In borders mixed with annuals and perennials
- In containers near patios or decks
Many gardeners even plant basil near outdoor seating areas, as its scent may help discourage flies.
Growing Basil in Containers
Basil grows beautifully in pots, making it perfect for patios, porches and small spaces.
Choose a container with drainage holes and fill it with a lightweight potting mix. Mixing in a slow-release fertilizer before planting provides nutrients all season.
Keep soil evenly moist, especially in smaller pots, which dry out faster. Window boxes may need extra watering if overhangs block rainfall.
Place larger varieties toward the center of mixed containers and use dwarf types along edges or in smaller pots. A few basil containers placed near your kitchen door make harvesting quick and convenient.
Whether planted in the ground or in containers, basil rewards you all season with fresh flavor, fragrance and beauty. Once you grow it, it’s hard to imagine your garden without it!