Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Basil, also called great basil, is a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae (mints). It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide. In Western cuisine, the generic term "basil" refers to the variety also known as Genovese basil or sweet basil. Basil is native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia. In temperate climates basil is treated as an annual plant, but it can be grown as a short-lived perennial or biennial in warmer horticultural zones with tropical or Mediterranean climates. Basil (Ocimum basilicum), also called great basil, is a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae (mints). It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide. In Western cuisine, the generic term "basil" refers to the variety also known as Genovese basil or sweet basil. Basil is native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia. In temperate climates basil is treated as an annual plant, but it can be grown as a short-lived perennial or biennial in warmer horticultural zones with ...
🌱 Growing Guide
☀️ Sun Requirements
Full sun (6-8 hours)
💧 Watering
1-2 inches per week
🌍 Soil Type
Well-draining, rich in organic matter
📏 Spacing
12-36 inches apart
📥 Planting Depth
1/4 to 1 inch deep
🌱 Germination
5-14 days
💡 Care Tips
- 1Prepare soil with compost before planting
- 2Water at the base of the plant to avoid wet leaves
- 3Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- 4Monitor for pests regularly
- 5Harvest regularly to encourage more production
- 6Rotate crops yearly to prevent disease buildup
📅 Seasonal Calendar
| Season | Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Start seeds indoors or direct sow after last frost |
| Summer | Regular watering, mulching, pest monitoring |
| Fall | Harvest, clean up beds, prepare for winter |
| Winter | Plan next season, order seeds, maintain tools |
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