Plant seeds of this basil in a light, well-draining soil that’s amended with well-composted materials. Allow 3 to 14 days for germination. Move into a partially sunny spot as leaves develop. Keep the soil consistently moist while germinating, but not wet, as young plants may damp off and fail.
Does purple basil like sun or shade?
direct sunlight
Like most varieties of basil plants, Purple Basil needs daily access to bright, direct sunlight. They need about 8 to 10 hours of bright, direct sunlight each day. Bright light is an important ingredient responsible for the deep purple color of the purple basil plant.
Where should I put my basil plant?
Basil is a tropical herb, and plants need sun and heat to thrive. Give it a spot that receives six to eight hours of sun daily, except in the South and Southwest, where afternoon shade is a must. Basil needs moist, nutrient-rich soil that drains well.
What is a companion plant for purple basil?
Oregano, Chives, Chamomile
These three herbs are good companion plants for basil. Not only do they assist in pest control, but it also helps to improve the flavor of basil and make it more effective as a pest repellent. They also increase the essential oils in the herb.
Does purple basil come back every year?
There are a few varieties of purple basil, but all are cultivars of the same basil plant, which is a true annual. Therefore purple basil grows from seed and die again all in one season, and do not return year after year.
How often should I water my purple basil?
How Often Should You Water Basil: Quick Summary of Tips
- With a basil plant, the goal is to keep the soil consistently moist, but not too wet or dry.
- To achieve optimal soil moisture and growth, you generally need to water basil every 3 to 4 days.
How often do you water purple basil?
Basil Plant Care Tips
Basil likes to stay moist and requires approximately 1 inch of water every week. Water deeply at least once a week to keep roots growing deep and the soil moist.
Does basil like to be in pots or will it prefer its own space?
Most basil varieties do well in pots and containers, as long as their sun and water needs are met. The most common variety for cooking is sweet basil (also known as Genovese), which does very well in containers.
Does basil do well in pots?
You can grow basil in almost anything. All kinds of containers will work, including a kiddie pool or even a laundry basket. Basil likes room so air can circulate around the plants. It also doesn’t like to dry out completely, so you should use a large pot.
What do basil plants attract?
A handful of insects are attracted to the basil plant. The Japanese Beetle, slugs, thrips, aphids, spider mites, and some caterpillars. Smaller insects can be removed with a strong water spray, while larger garden pests can be picked off by hand.
What shouldn’t I plant with basil?
Plants to Avoid Growing With Basil
- Herbs. While you can plant basil next to chamomile, oregano, and chives, basil generally prefers the company of vegetables over other herbs, and should not be planted near rue or sage.
- Cucumbers.
- Fennel.
Does purple basil grow in shade?
Purple basil prefers a sunny location that gets at least six hours of sun per day. Grow from seeds or transplants in well-drained soil that is richly amended with rotted manure or compost.
Is purple basil invasive?
This plant is easy to grow and reseeds well. It makes for good contrast of color among other plants. Can be considered invasive under good conditions but easy to control.
Will purple basil survive winter?
Generally, its growth cycle doesn’t include overwintering; rather it dies down and the hard seeds wait in the ground over winter and then germinate during the spring thaw. When temperatures dip, basil suffers cold damage almost immediately in the form of blackened leaves. Therefore, basil and cold weather do not gibe.
What is purple basil good for?
Health benefits
Like other basil, Purple basil is packed with Vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting and aids in bone strength. Used medicinally for its antioxidants and antibacterial properties, basil oil provides an immune system boost and combats aging and skin ailments.
How do you take care of a purple basil plant?
Purple basil thrives in well-draining soil that’s rich in organic content. Shallowly sow your basil seeds just 1/8 inches deep, burying the seeds in a row with the seeds almost touching. Water twice a day or as necessary to keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge, typically within a week after sowing.
Should I let my purple basil flower?
If you’re growing basil for its leaves and taste, harvest them before letting the plant bloom. If it’s purely for decorative purposes, then go ahead and let your plant bloom. Either way, your freshly picked leaves will still have all the same health benefits!
Do you water basil from the top or bottom?
BOTTOM WATERING
- Fill the plant tray with water.
- Make sure the soil is in contact with the water on the tray.
- Wait for about 10 minutes.
- Feel the soil to see if it absorbed enough water —> if the soil is moist throughout, remove any excess water from the tray.
- If it’s still dry —> add more water to the tray.
What does an overwatered basil plant look like?
The signs of overwatering look a lot like underwatering. Basil leaves droop and wilt, and there may be yellow leaves at the base of the plant. For potted plants, don’t let water sit in a saucer beneath the plant.
Is Purple Basil the same as regular basil?
Purple Basil
As its name suggests, this type of basil isn’t green like most herbs. It’s a vibrant purple color with larger-than-normal leaves. It’s not as sweet as other basil varieties, and it has a strong clove flavor.
How long do basil plants live?
Basil may survive for two years before replanting in warm climates. An indoor basil plant with full sun and steady warm temperatures may last longer as well. Basil plants are sensitive to cold weather and frost. Before the weather turns, take steps to preserve your plant for the next year.