Who doesn't know the problem: basil, just bought in the supermarket, drops its leaves after just a few days and dies. The popular culinary herb has a long lifespan - if it is cared for properly.
How long does basil last?
If basil is cared for properly, it can lastfor months and produce a bountiful harvest. With a bit of luck and the right approach, the typically annual culinary herb can overwinter indoors and move back outdoors the next year.
Why does basil often die so quickly?
Basil, especially bought in the supermarket, dies very quickly, which is due to both thecultivated cultivation for speedand unsuitable soil and soil that is insufficient for the rootsPot volume has to do with it. This opens the door to fungal diseases and the basil does not grow as desired. Other reasons for the short lifespan of basil can be incorrect watering over the leaves and a location that is too hot with a lot of direct midday sun.
Which care measures make basil live longer?
We recommend the following measures for a long lifespan of the basil:
- Watering: Basil should always be watered from below so that the leaves do not get wet and burn in the sun.
- Choose theright location: Basil loves it warm with at least 15 °C and dry, but doesn't like too much sunlight.
- Avoid waterlogging: If irrigation water cannot drain away, the light germinator can quickly be attacked by fungal diseases.
- Choose theright soil: The aromatic basil plant thrives best in a special herbal soil (€6.00 on Amazon) - nutrient-rich and permeable.
Why should I repot basil from the supermarket?
In order to really thrive, basil bought in the supermarket should be repotted. This gives the roots more space and you can use suitable soil. Dividing the plants is also highly recommended. Before it is placed on the sunny windowsill or outside, purchased basil must be accustomed to daylight for some time - it is best to place it briefly in the sun.
Can basil be overwintered?
Basilcan be overwintered indoorsAs soon as the temperatures permanently fall below 15 °C, the pots must be moved indoors and should be kept in a bright place at temperatures of 15 to 20 °C. This is also possible for specimens planted in the garden, which have to be dug up and placed must be planted in a pot with a drainage layer.
Is there perennial basil for outside?
Shrub basil is a perennial variety that can be left outside throughout the winter. It is very robust, produces beautiful flowers and can grow up to one meter high.
Tip
Growing from seeds instead of overwintering
Not every basil can overwinter successfully. Instead, seeds can be obtained from the inflorescences, which can then be planted next year and from which new basil plants grow.
