Basil — benefits, care & growing guide for this Basil species. Find watering, sunlight, soil, and growing tips to keep Basil healthy, plus identification notes and plant profile details from ePlant AI.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flavor.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Water when the top 1-2 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 25°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases on the leaves.
Allow the top 1-2 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during hot weather. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Pinch back the tops of the stems regularly, just above a set of leaves. This encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.
Remove flower stalks as soon as they appear to direct energy into leaf production and prolong the harvest.
Basil is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and place them in water until roots develop (about 2-3 weeks). Once rooted, plant them in well-draining soil.
Repot young basil plants when they become root-bound, typically every spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure adequate space for root growth to support vigorous foliage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Basil (Basil)
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Species | Basil |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
