Basil is one of the most popular culinary herbs and is often placed outside in pots. But what if the temperatures fall or there is frost on the ground? We explain whether the freezing temperatures can harm the basil.
Is basil a frost sensitive plant?
Basil is one of the veryfrost-sensitive plants and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. If the culinary herb grows in pots, it should be placed indoors to overwinter at temperatures of 10 °C or alternatively in a heated greenhouse.
Can basil freeze?
Planted outdoors in nutrient-rich soil or standing in pots on the balcony, basil can freeze very quickly in winterThe plant with the delicate leaves definitely does not like low temperatures and should Under no circumstances should you get frost.
How cold can it be for basil?
Basil loves it warm and sunny and feels most comfortable in a partially shaded to sunny location at temperatures ofat least 16 °C. It should be colder than 10 °Cunder no circumstances, then the temperature limit of the culinary herb has definitely been reached and it should move indoors. In contrast to many other herbs such as marjoram, oregano and thyme, basil is in no way frost-tolerant
Where is the best place to overwinter basil?
For overwintering basil,not too cool indoor spacesare very suitable. It is practical to keep the herb pots in the kitchen, for example on the windowsill, over the winter. However, if the basil is placed above a radiator, it can dry out very quickly. A greenhouse that is heated at low temperatures is an alternative place to overwinter.
How do I know if basil is frozen?
If basil is frozen, you can tell at first glance by thehanging leaves. In addition,rotten roots can be a sign of frost damage to the plant, which is not easy to care for.
Can frozen basil plants be saved?
Unfortunately, frozen basil plantsusually cannot be savedBut it is worth a try to bring the herbs in the pot inside as quickly as possible, cut off all the shoots and wait with regular watering and fertilizing whether the plant recovers. If basil planted outdoors freezes, this effort is usually in vain. With this form of cultivation, overwintering is not possible and even a fleece to cover it would be of no use.
Tip
“Relocation” on cold summer nights
Even in summer - especially in the transitional periods from spring to autumn - it can get quite cool at night. If temperatures of 10 °C or less are predicted, it is better to place your basil pots indoors to prevent possible damage to the plants. Ideally, the temperature should not fall below 16 °C.
