Back to the Basics!: Growing Basil from Seed to Harvest

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Growing Basil from Seed to Harvest

Have you ever considered the "medicine" available to you, grown in your own backyard (or farm).
From Basil to Coneflower and even Thyme, there are so many reported health benefits of many common (and not so common) herbs and flowers.
We're starting with Basil as it is probably the most common herb and arguably the easiest to grow.

Basil

Dark Purple Opal Basil

Sow seeds outdoors when soil is warm and temperature does not drop below 65°F. Can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out. Make successive sowings for continuous summer supplies. Pinch back flower stalks as they appear to keep plants from bolting. Prefers rich well-drained soil.

Basil has few pests, but occasionally pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and Japanese beetles will feast upon it. I use a spray bottle of water or water with neem oil to detach aphids.
Grow in full sun (6 hours or more).

Germination: 5-7 days

Fine Verde Basil

Days to Harvest: 45-75

BASIL Companion Plants:
Plant with tomatoes to improve growth and flavor. Basil also does well with peppers, oregano, asparagus and petunias. Basil can be helpful in repelling thrips. It is said to repel flies and mosquitoes. Do not plant near rue or sage.

From The Herb Companion:

"One of the primary medicinal uses for basil is for its anti-inflammatory properties. This effect stems from eugenol, a volatile oil in basil that blocks enzymes in the body that cause swelling, making basil an ideal treatment for people with arthritis.

Basil, especially as an extract or oil, is known to have exceptionally powerful antioxidant properties that can protect the body from premature aging, common skin issues, age-related problems and even some types of cancer. The herb also contains the flavonoids orientin and vicenin, which are plant pigments that shield your cell structures from oxygen and radiation damage.

Both fresh basil and basil oil have strong antibacterial capabilities. In fact, basil has been shown to stop the growth of many bacteria, even some that had grown resistant to other antibiotics. Basil can be applied to wounds to help prevent bacterial infections. Also, by adding basil oil to your salad dressings, you can help ensure your vegetables are safe to eat.

Basil oil can be used to treat constipation, stomach cramps and indigestion as well as the cold, flu, asthma, whooping cough, bronchitis and sinus infections. It is also a great source of magnesium, an essential mineral that helps the body’s blood vessels relax, which can improve blood flow."

Thai Holy Basil
Grow the same as you would any Basil.

Thai Holy Basil

In Ayurvedic medicine, Holy Basil is used as a tea or a tincture. Among its many medicinal uses are lowering cholesterol, as an immune booster, and lowering blood glucose levels NOTE: These claims have not been substantiated by the FDA and are not intended as medical advice

RECIPES:

Homegrown Basil Walnut Pesto

Homemade Basil Lemonade

*NEW* DIY Tincture Kit with Thai Holy Basil