If the sowing of basil seeds goes as desired, numerous, vital seedlings will thrive. So that the plants don't hinder each other's growth, pricking out is now on the agenda. With a little sensitivity and these instructions it will work smoothly.
When is the right time to prick basil?
Basil seedlings should be pricked out as soon as they have developed at least two pairs of leaves above their cotyledons. Carefully separating and transplanting them into new pots with potting soil allows the plants to grow he althily and promote lush branching.
How can you tell when the time is right?
Among hobby gardeners there is often uncertainty about choosing the correct time to plant the seedlings. If you look closely at the plants, you can see the two cotyledons at the bottom. These differ visually significantly from the real leaves sprouting above them. As soon as a basil seedling has produced at least two pairs of leaves above the cotyledons, the time has come for singling.
Confident pricking works like this
You give basil seedlings more stability for separation if you water the plants a few hours beforehand. Here's how to proceed:
- fill small cultivation pots half or two thirds with pricking soil
- cover the water drain in the bottom of the pot with a piece of pottery
- press a hollow into the substrate using a pricking stick
- separate the basil plants with the thin end of the pricking rod
- A spoon makes it easier to remove afterwards
- insert in the middle of the soil and plant just below the cotyledons
Take a close look at the seedlings when removing them. If the root strands are too long, shorten them to 2 centimeters using disinfected scissors. When placing it in the pricking soil, make sure that no roots bend upwards. Finally, compact the substrate from the side with the thin end of the pricking wood.
How to care for basil after pricking out
When separating, you give the young basil plants enough space for further growth. By the time you plant them out in mid-May, your pupils should be transformed into strong herb plants. Therefore, the focus is on these care measures:
- keep the substrate constantly slightly moist without wetting the foliage
- fertilize weekly organically with a liquid fertilizer (€13.00 on Amazon) in a highly diluted concentration
Regular trimming of the young shoots causes bushy growth and promotes lush branching.
Tips & Tricks
The bargain hunters among hobby gardeners don't buy expensive pricking wood. A shish kebab skewer or a Japanese chopstick made of wood or plastic will do the job just as well.
