Basil
Family. Lamiaceae.
Home basil - origin. Asia.
Description. Basil is a fragrant perennial herbaceous plant 0.3 - 0.5 m high, some varieties can reach 1 m. The appearance of the bushes is very diverse. Some varieties have dark purple leaves and stems. The leaves are large, juicy, ovoid, often wrinkled, the flowers are small, white or pink. It grows quickly.
Height. Depending on the variety, from 30 cm to 1 m.
Care
Growing from seeds
Sowing of seeds is carried out in the spring. The plant has excellent germination; the seeds also germinate quickly.
When it blooms
From June until frost.
Diseases and pests
Sometimes a whitefly appears.
Transplant
As soon as the plant's roots emerge from the drainage holes of the pot. Planting in fresh soil should be done at the beginning of the growing season - in the spring.
Basil in a pot - watering
Prefers moist soil.
Feeding basil
Plants are fed 2 times a month during the growing season.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range is 18 - 25 ° C.
Lighting
It grows well in direct sunlight and does not tolerate shade. Too hot daytime sun in summer can leave burns on the leaves.
Pruning, pinching
The tops of the shoots are pinched so that the plant branches abundantly and looks thicker. Since basil is grown mainly for the leaf crop, it is worth removing the emerging flower stalks.
Soil for basil
Suitable for sandy, loamy soils with good drainage, there are no special requirements for pH.
Spraying
Spray periodically if the air in the room is too dry, for example when the heating is on.
Purpose
Vegetable basil is used to make soups and sauces and is the main component of pesto sauce. The leaves can be eaten as a salad. The plant is also used in perfumery and soap making. Used to treat digestive disorders.
How long does basil grow?
The lifespan of a plant on a window is from 5 to 10 years.
Varieties of basil:
Purple basil
This basil has dark, burgundy and purple leaves. The edges of the leaf blades are covered with large teeth, the surface is glossy. In addition to high taste qualities, this plant is undoubtedly distinguished by its special decorativeness.
Lemon basil
As the name suggests, this variety has a pleasant aroma of lemon or lemon balm. The light green leaves of lemon basil are used in refreshing drinks or in preparing fish dishe