Pesto Recipes

Basil

Bezel; Osimum Basilicum

Days from Seed to Maturity:50-60

Lifespan: Most Basil, such as the common Sweet Basil, are Annual plants lasting 4-6 mths.

There are also some varieties of Basil that are Perennial, they can grow year round in the right conditions and the plant can come back every year, their leaves are smaller and the plants are bushier.

Outdoor Planting Zones: 5-10

Pruning: Basil should be 6 inches tall before pruning. Trim Basil leaves from the top of the plant. Leave the small leaves below the trimmed basil to allow them to grow.

Light: Direct Sunlight. 6 hrs/day in a sunny location or 10 hrs/day under fluorescent lighting.

Soil: Well drained, Moist. Slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Indoor Planting: If planted in a planter, soil at least 4 inches deep.

Water: Water every 1-2 days. Keep moist, well drained soil. Avoid watering the leaves. 

Food: Feed with a basic Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, such as Miracle-Gro, that has a NPK of 24-8-6, or your favorite well balanced fertilizer. Fertilize indoor plants per the directions accompanying your fertilizer of choice. 

Potential Companions: Basil grows well with Tomatoes, Parsley, Chamomile, Lettuce, Peppers, Borage, Marjoram, Oregano, Eggplants, Beans, Asparagus, Cabbage, Beets and Potatoes.

Do not plant with: Sage, Mint, Rue and Rosemary. 

Additional information: Basil repels Hornworms from Tomatoes when planted together.

Additional Links and Resources:

https://www.pinterest.com/LittleLakeviewConservatory/basil/

https://www.farmersalmanac.com/8-tips-to-grow-big-bushy-basil130968

https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publication/?seqNo115=322346

Little Lakeview Conservatory, LLC

Please feel free to contact us at LittleLakeviewConservatory@gmail.com be added to our email list or with any questions, requests and comments.

Little Lakeview Conservatory, LLC * Grow a little!™