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Basil

Basil has been used for centuries as an aromatic herb for its outstanding taste, but it also contains many nutrients. Basil is high in vitamin K, which supports healthy bones and blood, antioxidants that protect your cells against free radicals, and iron for healthy red blood cells and neurotransmitters. Basil is also thought to have antibacterial properties, accounting for its centuries-old use in balms to heal wounds.

Category

Days to Sprout

Taste It for

Temprature

Germination

Pollination

Prunning

Plant Health

Support

Harvest

Vegetables

5-21

8-12 weeks

Prefers warmer temperatures (70-85°F).

Remove leaves with brown spots if they appear. Check the roots monthly and trim any that are brown or extending past the yPod. For bushier growth, regularly harvest at the stem above the growth nodes (see Harvest below). To delay bolting, pinch off flower buds as they appear.

Aphids are a common pest, but you can use our prevention and treatment tricks to keep pests at bay! Root rot and Downy Mildew are also common diseases best controlled by regular root checks and removing any leaves with brown spots as they appear.

Harvesting frequently helps prolong the plant’s life. Pinch off individual leaves, or use clean shears to cut stems above growth nodes. Find growth nodes just above the two largest leaves on a stem. You should see another, small set of leaves or knobs (nodes) growing between the stem and larger set of leaves. Cut the stem 1/4-1/2″ above the nodes and watch the small leaves grow large!

Origin

People in India were the first to domesticate Basil. In 300 BC, it’s believed Alexandre the Great introduced Basil to the Occident. The Greeks immediately adopted its use, as did the Romans later on. Today, Basil is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. The Greek word for Basil, Basilikos, means “royal plant” or “little king”.

Qualities

Basil has been used for centuries as an aromatic herb for its outstanding taste, but it also contains many nutrients. Basil is high in vitamin K, which supports healthy bones and blood, antioxidants that protect your cells against free radicals, and iron for healthy red blood cells and neurotransmitters. Basil is also thought to have antibacterial properties, accounting for its centuries-old use in balms to heal wounds.

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