Hardy basil would undoubtedly be a bestseller – if only it existed. Due to its tropical origins, royal herb dies at temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. After all, some varieties thrive outdoors. Here you can find out all the important details.
Is there hardy basil?
There is no hardy basil as this plant comes from tropical areas and dies at temperatures below 10°C. However, there are outdoor cultivars such as 'Wild Purple', 'African Blue' and 'Tulsi' that are more resistant to cool, rainy weather.
Not intended in Mother Nature's metaplan
No amount of ranting and murder will help, herb fans among hobby gardeners are not granted winter-hardy basil. Immigrated from tropical climes with average temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius, royal herb simply stops growing at temperatures of 12 degrees Celsius. Even though winter-hardy basil belongs in the realm of fables, that doesn't mean giving up growing it outdoors. So read on with confidence.
These varieties bravely face cold, rainy weather
The vast majority of basil varieties prefer a location that is as warm and protected from rain as possible. Since woody shoots affect the aroma content, experienced hobby gardeners also regularly cut the plant back and thus preserve its delicate, herbaceous habit. Good to know that the following three varieties do not lose their taste despite the woody branches. At the same time, these royal herbs accept cool, rainy weather in summer without complaint:
- Basil 'Wild Purple'
- Basil ‘African Blue’
- Indian basil ‘Tulsi’
All three varieties impress with a majestic stature, purple-colored or veined leaves and a pink-red flower. They all have what it takes to be an enchanting feast for the eyes in any flower bed. Thanks to the gradually woody shoots, they do not lie on the ground after every summer rainstorm. Some hobby gardeners see the only possible propagation through cuttings as a downer.
Lack of winter hardiness does not rule out perennial culture
Although basil fails at temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, this shortcoming does not necessarily mean foregoing a perennial culture. In its home country, royal herb thrives for several years. The chances of overwintering are therefore good, provided the plant finds the following conditions:
- a sunny window seat with temperatures of 18 to 22 degrees Celsius
- protected from cold drafts
- an alternately moist substrate, without the risk of waterlogging
- a dose of organic liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks
Since no flowers sprout during the winter, the harvest is limited to what is actually needed. Whole shoots with a length of 5 centimeters are also cut. From mid-May, the kingweed moves into the garden or onto the balcony for another aromatic outdoor season.
Tips & Tricks
Basil planted in the bed can easily be moved for overwintering if the plant is placed in the ground in May along with a large pot. Ideally, there are two handles on the edge of the pot so that you can easily remove the herb plant from the ground in autumn to carry it to its winter quarters.
