Herbs can help life in many ways. Growing basil, Ocimum basilicum, is an super way to spice up the garden and your favorite recipes. Unknown to most, basil is really a member of the mint family! Although there is a few different varieties of basil, sweet basil is the most popular and well known. When it comes to old age medical remedies, and flavoring meals, basil is the best.

Old tales-

Throughout history, growing basil has held significance to cultures all over the world. The people of India swore their oaths in court on basil leaves. To signify love, Italian suitors wore a sprig of basil in their hair when they courted their ladies. A popular Mexican belief is that carrying basil would return a cheating lover.

Medicinal use-

There are big health benefits of growing basil. The plant contains beta carotene, naturally packed with vitamin A. Basil, is a cure-all herb that can treat many disorders and ailments from headaches to indigestion. There are so many benefits derived from basil, that it is known as the 'King of Herbs'.

How to Grow Basil-

Growing basil can be childs-play. The seed can be sown indoors, then transplanting outside at a later date. It can even be full grown indoors if preferred. The plant needs plenty of sun to thrive. You can use fluorescent ’grow’ bulbs if there is not enough lighting in your home.

Sow the seed in a warm time of year, about an inch apart. After a few leaves have grown, the basil can then be re-planted. Make certain you wait until a late frost is no longer a threat.

Organic mulch should be added to the surface about 3” deep. Watering should take place one day per week, before noon. Never use too much fertilizer, as this can remove the unique odor from the herb.

When re-planting, dig the herbs in at least 1 – 1 feet apart from each other, to ensure appropriate growing space. For growing basil, it has essentially two requirements, well-drained soil, and a sunny, moist area.

Basil should be pruned fortnightly to increase its hardiness. Clip leaves back to around a quarter inch above a node and leave enough foliage for continued growth. Deadhead any flower stems to keep the plant in production.

Try growing basil near tomato plants. Both of these plants require a lot of sunlight, and watering, so it is convenient to place them close to each other. Basil next to tomato – like bolognese sauce! Basil also acts as a natural insect repellent, either in the home kitchen, or to keep pests away from other plants.

After 6” of growth, the top leaves are ready to be pinched off. Basil plants can grow to approximately 24" tall. Growing basil not only adds to your culinary delights, but it is delightful addition in the garden.