Sweet basil care guide
Ocimum basilicum
Also known as: Basilico, Basil
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Sweet basil
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- A thirsty plant: water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, which in midsummer can mean morning and evening.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- Growth slows as it cools, so water once the soil is dry, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 5 days
- Usually finished as an annual; if kept indoors over winter, water sparingly once the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for Sweet basil
Generally wants a sunny, airy spot with at least half a day of sun as a guide; harsh afternoon sun in midsummer toughens the leaves, so light afternoon shade keeps them tender.
Overwintering Sweet basil
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Tender: below about 10°C the leaves blacken, so it is generally ended as an annual in fall or, as a guide, cut back and kept at a bright window around 15°C.
Fertilizing and repotting Sweet basil
Fertilizer
From May to September, diluted liquid fertilizer about every one to two weeks as a guide; starved plants yellow, overfed ones lose fragrance.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Sweet basil
- Flower spikes are left on, and the leaves turn tough and less fragrant.
- Drying out in midsummer wilts it by midday, and repeated wilting drops the lower leaves.
- Fall cold blackens the leaves and kills the plant.
- Aphids or spider mites make the leaves curl.
Tips for growing Sweet basil
- Pinch the growing tip once there are six to eight true leaves; side shoots multiply and yields rise.
- Pinch off flower spikes as soon as they appear to keep tender leaves coming.
- Harvest from the top and leave the lower leaves so the plant keeps its strength.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
