Beginners Guide to Growing Basil Indoors
Herbs are a large group of versatile plants packed with more flavor per square inch than any other. And while many other woody perennial types give us their aromatic bounty year-round.
Today I picked up an ideal herb to grow indoors.
Herbs in simple definition
Herbs by definition are a large group of edible aromatic plants used mostly for garnishing and flavoring. Herbs may be annual perennial leafy, or woody, and although botanically the term herbaceous refers to plants that lack a rigid woody stem staples like thyme and rosemary here are still included generally it’s the leaves that are consumed either fresh or dried but seeds and flowers of summer varieties are sought after.
I agree that gardening without herbs would be tasteless and flavorless.
Basil
This sweet-scented herb is super easy to grow indoors. They can easily be grown indoors to make them part of your dishes and for aromatic purposes. It requires a small space, so if you live in a small apartment you can keep it in a small pot. They can also increase the aesthetic beauty of your house, with their shiny green leaves that bloom in bunches, are small, and have an enticing aroma. Let’s have a look at the steps for growing basil from seeds.
Planting seeds at the right time
Weather conditions are crucial for planting any seed. It is best to seed your basil plants in spring if you live in a place with extreme temperatures. So the seedling can escape the effects of hot spots. However, gardeners living in moderate temperatures can sow seeds at any time of the year.
Watering and covering
Choose a pot for planting that has proper drainage, and use the most appropriate potting soil. Sow the seeds gently in the soil, and cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds moderately, and cover the pot with plastic kitchen wrap. This will help maintain a suitable temperature for germination.
Lightening
Basil needs lightning more than enough lighting when cultivating indoors. Uncover the pot when the seedlings appear. There are two ways to fulfill the light requirements of seeds. The pot can be placed on the windowsill facing the right direction or under grow lights (artificial lights provide light to indoor growing plants).
If you are using grow lights, try to place the lights about 6 inches (15.24 cm) above the plant and turn on the lights for about 10 hours. But if you choose sunlight as a source of light, then the light period must be at least 6 hours per day.
Proper air and humid
Basil plants require proper humidity and air circulation. Damp gravel is the most appropriate option to provide humidity, especially in a dry environment. The pot should be placed near the ventilation or a location where air circulation is better than elsewhere in the room for proper oxygenation. However, do not place the pot in an extremely harsh environment.
Care at the seedling stage
Once the seedlings sprout, basil needs more care and moisture. Never let the soil dry out during seedling. Moisture helps the roots to expand and grow. Longer roots help plants absorb nutrients and water for better growth.
Transplanting the seedling
A few days before transplanting the seedling, slowly introduce the seedling to outdoor conditions. By simply placing them in a shady place. Don’t bring the seedlings outdoors in windy weather. The first thing you should do is place them outside for a few minutes. Then gradually increase the amount of time.
After a week, your seedlings will be ready for transplanting. Place them in a suitable container in terms of drainage and size.
Place the pot near the window, regularly water the basil, and prune the plants to keep them in shape. Now, enjoy the taste of basil year round and increase the aesthetic beauty of your home.