The complete guide to growing basil. Includes propagating basil, how to chop basil & how to freeze basil. Includes tips and easy ways to get the most out of your basil plants.
Today it’s all about growing basil plus how to propagate, chop, and freeze this versatile herb. Basil is one of those plants that grows almost anywhere and needs minimal care. It was the very first herb I ever planted and has been the star of my herb garden ever since. First up are tips for growing basil followed by tips for propagating basil, or growing from cuttings.
Growing Basil In A Pot
Basil is a must-have for any herb garden, and if you are a beginner, it’s the perfect herb to start with. Basil can be grown inside or outside and requires no special attention. Basil plants are readily available during the growing season and can be found year round in the produce section of grocery stores.
- Use a large container with good drainage and fertilized potting soil.
- Place the container where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Water regularly so the soil stays moist.
By following these simple tips you will be rewarded with lovely fresh basil leaves for cooking and preserving.
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Propagating Basil
Propagating basil is actually much easier than it sounds! With your garden scissors in hand, harvest several basil stems making sure to cut low on the plant. Snip each stem at an angle just under the lowest set of leaf nodes. Trim the leaves so you have a bare stem.
Place the snipped basil stems in jars of fresh water. It helps to change the water every few days, but I occasionally forget and the roots still grow just fine.
Roots will grow out of the stems in about two weeks.
Plant the rooted basil in fresh potting soil and water well.
This is a great way to get extra basil plants to give as gifts or to use for an indoor herb garden when the cold weather arrives. My favorite ways to use basil are in pasta sauces, {grilled honey mustard chicken} and {caprese salad}.
How to Chop Basil Video
How to Freeze Basil Video
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