Basil is one of the most popular culinary herbs. Your local grocery store usually stocks Sweet Basil as this is the most common variety of this herb. You can also find varieties with green leaves and deep purple leaves. Thai basil has green leaves and pretty dainty purple flowers. Not only is basil great to use for cooking it is a pretty addition in the garden. Below are some tips to grow basil in your Phoenix garden.
Phoenix Gardening Steps: Grow Basil
- When and how to plant basil
- What grows well near basil and what doesn’t?
- How to care for basil
- Harvesting basil- When is the ideal time to pick basil?
When to Plant and How to Grow Basil
Basil is an annual herb, however it is possible to be a perennial in Phoenix. Plant seeds between February and April. On average basil will start to sprout in a week or two and depending on the variety can be ready to harvest in less than a month.
Allow space for basil to spread up to one feet and one to two feet tall.
Companion Plants for Basil
Rue is the only herb Basil should not be planted near as it can inhibit growth. Basil is great to plant near tomatoes and asparagus.
How to Care for Basil
Light Requirements: Basil prefers full sun or 6-8 hours of sun.
Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile well-drained soil. Basil like most herbs prefers neutral and slightly acidic pH. The soil pH range of 6-7 is ideal.
Water Requirements: Basil likes consistent moisture. Water frequently so the soil stays moist, but not wet.
When to Harvest Basil
Basil takes less than a month from seed to harvest. Harvest basil in the months of March, April and May.