A Practical Guide to Growing Basil: Secrets to a Green, Fragrant Garden

Gourmet gardeners can't imagine their culinary masterpieces without basil—this fragrant and healthy plant whose scent instantly transports you to the sunny expanses of Italy or Greece. But to grow it in your own garden, you'll need A love of agricultural technology and a bit of astronomical wisdom. Today, dear gardeners, we'll delve into the intricacies of growing basil, taking into account all the nuances of sowing and caring for this heat-loving wonder in 2024.

Timeframe for completion of works

Did you know that basil, like any plant, has its own season? It simply can't wait for its seeds to burst into the ground, creating a magnificent symphony of growth. But how do you choose that moment? Weather, region, and variety all play a role in determining the ideal planting time. For example, early basil varieties begin their life within 25-40 days of germination, while late varieties require almost 70 days of sun.

So, let's look at some specific examples:

• If you live in the south and the weather is already warm, you can safely plant the seeds outdoors in early June.
• The temperate climate is ideal for growing from seedlings. Sowing begins in early April, and by the end of May, the beds are planted in the open air.
• In the Urals, the Far East, and Siberia, it's preferable to cover greenery with a greenhouse, as farming is associated with certain risks.

However, these are just rough guidelines. Keep an eye on the weather, and you'll never have any more timing errors!

And yes, let's not miss the stellar moment. Astrologers agree that favorable days for sowing seeds and planting are ideally determined by the Moon. Look for it when it's in its growth phase and take action! Avoid the Full Moon and New Moon—we don't need vulnerable plants.

When planning gardening, it's important to consider the lunar calendar. Sowing seeds, transplanting, and planting outdoors are all done on days when the moon is in its waxing phase. It's not recommended to sow basil during the Full Moon or New Moon, as the plants are vulnerable and risk damage or death. The table below lists unfavorable and favorable days for planting basil.

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Basil Assortment: A Flavor for Every Taste!

But before we delve into the growing techniques, let's not forget about the variety of basil varieties. After all, choosing basil is like choosing a menu at a restaurant: from classics to exotic flavors! Whatever you choose, starting from seedlings is your best starter kit. Seedlings will protect the plants from the cold, reduce seed consumption, and give you the chance to select the most robust candidates for your personal herb garden.

So, here is a list of popular varieties that are a good start for seedlings:

Agronomists recommend growing basil from seeds outdoors only in the southern regions of the country (Krasnodar, Astrakhan, Adygea). To protect against temperature fluctuations and moisture loss, mulch the plantings with peat or sawdust. Mulching also protects the beds from excess moisture and blackleg.

Features of cultivation

When growing directly from seedlings, seeds are immediately placed in open ground and covered with plastic wrap or spunbond. This work is carried out after the last frost has passed and the temperature has risen above 18ºC. It is recommended to plant tomatoes, legumes, and melons near basil. Planting near cucumbers and cabbage is not recommended.

Preparing seeds and soil

Before planting, disinfect the seedling boxes and pots with a solution of potassium permanganate. To prepare fertile soil, mix humus, peat, and sand in a ratio of 2:4:1. The mixture must be sifted and steamed in a water bath. Place a drainage layer of small stones at the bottom of the box, and the soil must be moistened and loosened.

To speed up germination, soak the seeds in warm water or a Fitosporin-M solution for 30 minutes. Place the seeds in the soil to a depth of 0.5 cm, cover with soil, and water. To speed up germination, ensure temperatures above 18ºC and high humidity. To create a greenhouse effect, cover the containers with plastic wrap and place them on a south-facing windowsill or in a greenhouse.

Planting scheme and care features

If planting instructions are followed, the first shoots will appear in 10-14 days. After the seeds germinate, remove the film and provide the seedlings with further care:

1. The air temperature is reduced to +15ºС.
2. Plants are watered as the top layer of soil dries out; basil is protected from drafts.
3. After two true leaves appear, transplant the seedlings. Remove them from the box and place them in peat or plastic cups. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the young roots.
4. Two weeks before planting in open ground, the seedlings are hardened off by leaving the containers outside, gradually increasing the time.
5. When the soil warms to above 15ºC, the plants can be planted outdoors. Plant the greens at a distance of 20-30 cm and water thoroughly. When growing without seedlings, follow the planting pattern: keep the seeds 30 cm apart and leave 20 cm between rows.
6. To avoid damage by fungal diseases, it is necessary to avoid dense plantings and excessive watering.

To grow a good harvestDuring the season, the plant is fertilized twice: one week after transplanting and in mid-June. The first application requires 200 g of wood ash per 10 liters of water. The second application is with mullein: 1 cup of liquid manure per bucket of liquid.

Basil is an easy-to-grow plant; if you follow the care instructions, the greens will be ready for culinary purposes by midsummer. To ensure a good harvest, you should plant basil seedlings in 2021 according to the lunar calendar, taking into account the variety and growing region.