Basil is a fragrant, fast-growing herb prized for its bright green leaves and distinctive, aromatic flavour. The plant forms a compact, bushy shape with smooth, oval leaves that release a sweet, slightly peppery scent when touched. In summer, basil produces small white or purple flowers, though these are often pinched off to encourage continued leaf growth.
Native to warm climates, basil thrives in sunny conditions and well-drained soil, making it a popular choice for gardens, containers, and windowsills. Widely used in cuisines around the world—especially Italian, Thai, and Mediterranean dishes—basil adds fresh flavour to sauces, salads, and pesto. Beyond its culinary value, basil is also appreciated for its potential health benefits and its ability to attract pollinators when allowed to bloom.
Choose the Right Location Basil loves warmth and sunshine. Place plants in full sun (6–8 hours daily). Grow in the ground or in pots with good drainage.
Planting Sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors once temperatures stay above 15°C (60°F). Plant seeds about ¼ inch (0.5 cm) deep. Space plants 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart.
Soil Use well-drained, fertile soil. Add compost to improve growth. Basil prefers slightly moist but not soggy soil.
Watering Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist. Avoid letting soil dry out completely. Water at the base to prevent leaf diseases.
Feeding Feed lightly with compost or a mild liquid fertilizer every few weeks. Avoid heavy fertilizing, which can reduce flavour.
Pruning Pinch off the top leaves once the plant has 6–8 leaves. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth. Remove flower buds to keep leaves tender and flavourful.
Pest Care Watch for aphids and slugs. Use natural pest control methods if needed.
With regular care and harvesting, basil will produce fresh leaves throughout the growing season and grow well indoors or outdoors.
Start Harvesting Early Begin harvesting once the plant is about 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) tall. Early harvesting encourages the plant to grow bushy instead of tall and leggy.
How to Harvest Use your fingers or clean scissors. Cut or pinch the stem just above a pair of leaves. Never remove more than ⅓ of the plant at one time.
Harvest Regularly Harvest often, even if you don’t need much basil. Frequent cutting promotes new growth and healthier plants.
Remove Flower Buds Pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear. This keeps the leaves tender and improves flavour.
Best Time to Harvest Harvest in the morning, after dew has dried but before the sun is strong. Leaves have the best flavour at this time.
After Harvest Care Water the plant after harvesting. Continue regular feeding and care to keep the plant productive.
Proper harvesting keeps basil lush, flavourful, and productive throughout the season.
