Basil plant growing conditions

The Art of Cultivating Basil: A Master Copywriter's Guide

From my experience as a highend copywriter and SEO professional, I have found that the most compelling content is not just informative, but it also creates a strong, emotional connection with the reader. When it comes to growing something as universally loved as basil, that connection is already halfway made. I do not just write about basil plant growing conditions; I write about the promise of a vibrant, aromatic kitchen, the satisfaction of a fresh harvest, and the simple joy of nurturing a living thing. I believe that by focusing on this core human experience, we can create an article so rich and detailed that it will naturally outrank anything else on the web. I recommend we start by addressing the fundamental needs of this incredible herb, moving from the most critical factors to the nuanced details that make all the difference.

The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Basil Plant Growing Conditions

There are few things more rewarding than plucking a fresh, fragrant leaf of basil from your own plant and adding it to a caprese salad or a homemade pesto. From my perspective, growing basil isn't just a hobby; it’s a commitment to flavor and freshness. I do this every year, and I've learned that success boils down to a few key environmental variables that you absolutely must get right. Ignoring these will result in a leggy, sickly plant or, even worse, no plant at all. I recommend paying close attention to these details.

The Cornerstone of Basil's Success: Sunlight

I cannot stress this enough: sunlight is the single most important factor for robust basil growth. This is a Mediterranean plant, and it thrives on the sun's energy. I recommend a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. From my experience, anything less than this will result in a sparse, pale plant with thin, weak stems. You'll see the leaves trying to stretch out towards the light, and they'll never develop that deep, vibrant green color we all want. I do this by placing my pots on a southfacing windowsill or in a spot in my garden that gets full, unobstructed sun.

Understanding the Role of Light Intensity

It's not just about the number of hours; it's about the intensity. I have seen countless indoor growers struggle because they place their plants in a "bright room" that lacks direct sunlight. While the room may appear bright to us, the light intensity is often too low for basil. I recommend supplementing with grow lights if you are growing indoors. A fullspectrum LED light placed a few inches above the plant can mimic the sun perfectly, giving your basil the energy it needs to produce those succulent, aromatic leaves.

The Peril of Insufficient Light

When basil doesn't get enough light, I find that it becomes "etiolated." This is a scientific term for the plant's frantic attempt to find a light source. The stems will grow long and thin, and the spaces between the leaves will become abnormally large. This is a telltale sign of a problem, and I do not want you to make this mistake. I recommend moving the plant immediately to a sunnier location or investing in a proper grow light. I see this problem with novice growers all the time, and I've learned that a simple light adjustment can save the plant.

The Ideal Watering Schedule for Basil

Watering basil can be a bit of a balancing act. From my experience, the number one mistake people make is either overwatering or underwatering. Basil needs consistent moisture, but it absolutely detests sitting in soggy, waterlogged soil. I recommend a welldraining pot and a highquality potting mix that retains moisture without becoming a swamp. I do this by checking the soil with my finger every day. If the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. I recommend watering slowly and deeply until you see water begin to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root ball is hydrated.

The Importance of Proper Drainage

I must emphasize the importance of drainage. I see so many people use beautiful pots with no drainage holes, and it always ends in disaster. From my experience, basil's roots are highly susceptible to root rot if they are left in stagnant water. This condition starves the roots of oxygen and allows fungal pathogens to thrive. I recommend always using a pot with adequate drainage holes and, if necessary, adding a layer of pebbles at the bottom to ensure no water is trapped. I do this as a standard practice for all my container plants, and it has saved me from countless problems.

Temperature and Humidity: Finding the Sweet Spot

Basil is a warmweather crop. I find that it truly begins to thrive when the temperatures are consistently between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (1827 degrees Celsius). From my experience, anything below 50°F (10°C) can cause significant stress, and a frost will almost certainly kill the plant. I do not recommend planting basil outdoors until all danger of frost has passed. Indoors, I find that a stable, warm environment is best. I recommend placing your plant away from cold drafts from windows or air conditioning vents.

Humidity is also a factor, but it is less critical than sunlight or temperature. Basil prefers a moderate humidity level, similar to a standard indoor environment. I do not find that special humidifiers are necessary unless your home is exceptionally dry. I recommend simply misting the plant occasionally to refresh it, but be careful not to keep the leaves wet for prolonged periods, as this can encourage fungal diseases.

The Right Soil: The Foundation of Growth

The soil is what provides the nutrients and physical support for the plant. From my experience, a generic garden soil will not work well for containergrown basil. I recommend using a highquality, sterile potting mix that is specifically designed for containers. This type of soil is lighter, provides better aeration, and is free of pathogens and weed seeds. I do this to give my plants the best possible start. I recommend a mix that includes peat moss, perlite, and a small amount of compost for nutrients.

The Critical Nutrients for Basil

Basil is a moderate feeder. I find that it benefits from a regular supply of nutrients, especially as it grows larger. I recommend using a balanced, watersoluble fertilizer at half strength every two to three weeks. Look for a fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), such as 101010 or 141414. I do this during the growing season to ensure my basil has all the necessary building blocks for healthy leaf production. From my experience, overfertilizing can burn the roots and cause more harm than good, so it's always better to use a little less than too much.

I believe that by following these fundamental principles—getting the sunlight, water, temperature, and soil just right—you will be well on your way to growing basil that not only survives, but truly thrives. I do this every season, and the results are always a testament to the power of understanding a plant's basic needs. I recommend you start today and see the incredible results for yourself.

From the precise requirements for light and soil to the nuanced management of pests and diseases, our goal is to furnish a resource so rich in data and practical application that it becomes the unparalleled authority on the subject. We have synthesized extensive horticultural knowledge, scientific research, and centuries of cultivation practices to produce a text designed to empower both the novice and the seasoned gardener. Our objective is not merely to offer advice, but to present a complete framework for understanding the plant's biology and environmental interactions, ensuring successful cultivation in any climate or setting. Through this extensive exploration, we aim to establish a new standard for online horticultural information, providing a trustworthy, exhaustive, and indispensable resource for the global community of basil enthusiasts.

The Foundational Principles of Basil Cultivation

To truly master the art of growing basil, one must first comprehend the foundational principles that govern its life cycle and environmental requirements. The basil plant, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is a warmweather annual that evolved in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa. Its genetic heritage predisposes it to a specific set of environmental conditions. Understanding these core requirements is the first and most critical step towards cultivating a plant that not only survives but flourishes, yielding an abundance of fragrant, flavorful leaves.

We will begin by dissecting the four pillars of successful basil cultivation: light, water, temperature, and soil. These are the fundamental variables that dictate the plant's health, growth rate, and aromatic qualities. We will explore each factor in exhaustive detail, providing specific metrics and actionable advice to optimize every stage of the growing process.

The Role of Photoperiod and Light Intensity

Light is, without question, the most vital environmental factor for basil. As a sunloving plant, it requires a significant amount of light energy to perform photosynthesis, the process by which it converts light into chemical energy for growth.

Ideal Sunlight Exposure for Basil

For outdoor cultivation, we recommend a location that provides a minimum of six to eight hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight per day. In the northern hemisphere, a southfacing location in a garden bed or on a balcony is ideal. A lack of sufficient light will cause a phenomenon known as etiolation, where the plant's stems become elongated, thin, and pale as it stretches in a desperate attempt to find a light source. The leaves will be small, sparse, and lack the characteristic deep green color and robust flavor. We have observed that plants receiving less than four hours of direct sun often fail to produce enough energy to sustain themselves, leading to stunted growth and a heightened susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Cultivating Basil Indoors with Artificial Light

For indoor cultivation, replicating the intensity and duration of natural sunlight is paramount. A standard windowsill, while seemingly bright, often does not provide enough direct light for basil to thrive, especially during winter months or in cloudy regions. In such cases, we strongly recommend the use of artificial grow lights.

Types of Grow Lights for Basil

FullSpectrum LED Grow Lights: These are the most energyefficient and effective option. They are designed to emit a balanced spectrum of light that mimics natural sunlight, providing the necessary red and blue wavelengths for both vegetative growth and flowering. We recommend a fullspectrum LED light with a wattage of at least 32 watts for a single plant or a larger array for multiple plants. The light should be positioned approximately 12 to 18 inches above the top of the plant canopy to ensure optimal light intensity without causing heat stress.

Fluorescent Lights (T5 or T8): These are a more traditional option. They are effective for young plants and can be used to supplement natural light. However, they are less energyefficient than LEDs and require the bulbs to be placed closer to the plant, typically 4 to 6 inches, to be effective.

HighIntensity Discharge (HID) Lights (e.g., Metal Halide): While extremely powerful and effective, these lights are generally overkill for a simple basil plant. They are more suited for largerscale indoor agriculture and can produce excessive heat, necessitating additional ventilation. For a typical home gardener, we advise against using HID lights for basil due to their high energy consumption and heat output.

The Photoperiod for Indoor Basil

The basil plant is a longday plant, meaning it requires a long period of light exposure to reach its full growth potential. For indoor growing, we advise a light cycle of 14 to 16 hours of light per day, followed by an 8 to 10hour dark period. This mimics the conditions of a long summer day and promotes vigorous vegetative growth.

The Art and Science of Watering Basil

Proper watering is a delicate balance. Basil requires consistent moisture but is highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. We have found that the most common reason for basil plant failure is improper watering practices, primarily overwatering.

Soil Moisture Management

We recommend a simple yet effective method for determining when to water: the "finger test." Insert your index finger about one inch deep into the soil. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it is time to water. If it still feels moist, delay watering. This method is far more reliable than a strict watering schedule, as environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and pot size will cause the soil to dry out at different rates.

When watering, we advise doing so thoroughly and deeply. Water the plant until you see water begin to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root ball is saturated, which encourages the roots to grow downwards and outwards, creating a more stable and healthy plant. Watering in small sips can lead to a shallow root system, making the plant more vulnerable to drought stress.

The Dangers of Overwatering

Overwatering leads to anaerobic conditions in the soil, suffocating the roots by displacing oxygen. This creates an ideal environment for harmful fungal pathogens that cause root rot. Signs of root rot include wilting (even when the soil is wet), yellowing of the lower leaves, and a general lack of vigor. The roots themselves will become dark, mushy, and foulsmelling.

To prevent this, we must ensure excellent drainage. The pot must have sufficient drainage holes at the bottom. We also advise against placing the pot in a saucer filled with water for extended periods, as this will resaturate the soil and lead to the problems we are trying to avoid.

The Consequences of Underwatering

While less common than overwatering, underwatering can also severely harm a basil plant. Signs of drought stress include limp, drooping leaves and a general shriveled appearance. The leaves may turn yellow and then brown at the edges. While basil is remarkably resilient and can often recover from a single bout of severe dehydration, repeated stress will weaken the plant and stunt its growth.

Temperature and Humidity: The Climatic Sweet Spot

Basil is a true lover of warmth. Its optimal growth occurs within a specific temperature range, and it is highly intolerant of cold.

Optimal Temperature Range

For basil to thrive, we have determined that the ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). The plant will tolerate temperatures slightly outside this range, but its growth will slow down. Below 50°F (10°C), the plant will suffer from cold stress, leading to stunted growth, discoloration of leaves (often a purplish hue), and an increased risk of disease. A single frost event will almost certainly kill the plant. Therefore, we highly recommend waiting until all danger of frost has passed before transplanting basil seedlings outdoors.

Humidity Requirements

Basil prefers a moderate humidity level, typically between 40% and 60%. Standard indoor humidity levels are generally sufficient. While some growers mist their basil, we advise caution. Misting can leave water on the leaves, which, if not allowed to dry quickly, can create a breeding ground for fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If you live in a very arid climate, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can help to increase localized humidity without wetting the leaves.

The Ideal Soil Composition for Basil

The soil serves as both a physical anchor and a source of nutrients for the basil plant. A highquality, wellaerated, and nutrientrich soil is essential for robust growth.

Soil for Container Gardening

For containergrown basil, we emphatically recommend using a highquality, sterile potting mix. Garden soil or topsoil is too dense and can compact easily, hindering drainage and aeration. A good potting mix will contain a blend of materials designed to provide the perfect balance of moisture retention, drainage, and air pockets for the roots.

Components of an Ideal Potting Mix

Peat Moss or Coco Coir: These materials are excellent for retaining moisture and are slightly acidic, which basil prefers. Coco coir is a more sustainable alternative to peat moss.

Perlite or Vermiculite: These lightweight, porous materials are crucial for aeration and drainage. They prevent the soil from compacting and ensure that the roots receive adequate oxygen. Perlite tends to be a better choice for drainage, while vermiculite also helps with moisture retention. We recommend a mix that is at least 2030% perlite or vermiculite.

Compost or Worm Castings: A small amount of welldecomposed compost or worm castings provides a slowrelease source of nutrients and beneficial microbes. This enriches the soil and promotes overall plant health.

Sand (optional): A small amount of coarse sand can be added to improve drainage in heavy mixes, but it should be used judiciously as too much can make the soil too dense.

Soil for InGround Planting

If planting basil directly in a garden bed, we recommend amending the existing soil to improve its structure and fertility. We suggest incorporating a significant amount of wellaged compost or other organic matter into the top 68 inches of the soil. This will improve drainage in heavy clay soils and increase moisture retention in sandy soils. A pH test of the soil is also a good practice, as basil prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 6.0 and 7.0.

Nutrient Management and Fertilization

While basil does not require a heavy feeding schedule, a regular supply of nutrients is essential for sustained, vigorous growth, especially in containers.

The Macro and Micronutrients

Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is the primary nutrient for vegetative growth. It promotes the production of lush, green leaves, which is precisely what we want from a basil plant.

Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus is vital for root development, energy transfer, and flowering.

Potassium (K): Potassium contributes to overall plant health, strengthens stems, and helps the plant withstand stress and disease.

We recommend using a balanced, allpurpose liquid fertilizer with an equal NPK ratio, such as 101010 or 141414.

Fertilization Schedule and Application

For containergrown basil, we advise applying a halfstrength solution of a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season (from late spring to early autumn). Overfertilizing can lead to a condition known as "fertilizer burn," where the excess salts in the soil draw water out of the plant's roots, causing the leaves to turn brown and crisp. It is always safer to underfertilize than to overfertilize.

For inground basil, if the soil has been amended with rich compost, additional fertilization may not be necessary. However, a light application of a slowrelease granular fertilizer at the beginning of the season can be beneficial.

The Critical Role of Air Circulation

Proper air circulation is often an overlooked factor in basil cultivation, but it is critical for preventing a host of fungal diseases. Stagnant, humid air creates a perfect environment for pathogens like powdery mildew and downy mildew to thrive.

Promoting Air Flow

We recommend placing basil plants in a location where there is a gentle breeze or air movement. For indoor plants, this can be achieved with a small fan on a low setting, pointed to gently circulate the air without directly blasting the plant. Outdoors, adequate spacing between plants is essential. We advise a spacing of at least 12 to 18 inches between plants to ensure each plant receives sufficient air circulation. Pruning the plant to remove lower, congested leaves will also help to improve airflow.

Propagating Basil: From Seed to Harvest

Understanding the life cycle of the basil plant is fundamental to its successful cultivation. We will detail the two primary methods of propagation: starting from seed and taking cuttings.

Starting Basil from Seed

This is the most common and costeffective method. Basil seeds are small and germinate relatively quickly.

Seed Selection: We recommend purchasing highquality, fresh seeds from a reputable source. Old seeds may have a lower germination rate. There are many varieties of basil, each with its own unique flavor profile and growth habit.

Sowing the Seeds: Sow the seeds on the surface of a sterile seedstarting mix. Do not bury them, as basil seeds require light to germinate. A light dusting of vermiculite can help to hold moisture around the seeds.

Germination Conditions: Place the seed tray in a warm location, ideally with a soil temperature between 70°F and 85°F (21°C and 29°C). A heating mat can be used to maintain this temperature. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Time to Germination: Basil seeds typically germinate in 5 to 10 days. Once the seedlings emerge, they must be moved to a location with ample light to prevent etiolation.

Propagating Basil from Cuttings

Propagating basil from cuttings is an excellent way to create new plants from a mature, healthy specimen. This method ensures that the new plant is a genetic clone of the parent, preserving desirable traits.

Taking the Cutting: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to take a cutting from a healthy stem. The cutting should be 4 to 6 inches long and have at least two sets of leaves. Make the cut just below a node (the point where a leaf or branch grows from the stem).

Preparing the Cutting: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only the top one or two sets. This prevents the leaves from rotting in the water and forces the plant to focus its energy on root production.

Rooting in Water: Place the cutting in a glass of clean, roomtemperature water. Ensure that the nodes from which you removed the leaves are submerged. Place the glass in a location with bright, indirect light.

Root Development: Roots will begin to form from the nodes in approximately 7 to 14 days. Once the roots are at least an inch long, the cutting is ready to be transplanted into a small pot filled with potting mix.

Transplanting: Carefully plant the rooted cutting, ensuring not to damage the delicate new roots. Water it well and place it in a location with bright, indirect light for a few days to acclimate before moving it to a sunnier spot.

Pruning and Harvesting: A Strategy for Abundance

Proper pruning and harvesting are not just about collecting leaves; they are essential for promoting a bushy, full plant and preventing it from flowering and going to seed. Once a basil plant flowers, its leaves often lose their flavor and the plant's energy is diverted away from leaf production.

The Art of Pruning

We recommend a technique known as "pinching." When a basil plant is young and has at least two sets of true leaves, we advise pinching off the top two leaves just above a node. This encourages the plant to branch out at that node, creating two new stems where there was one.

We continue this practice throughout the plant's life. When a stem has grown to have six to eight sets of leaves, we pinch it back to the third or fourth set of leaves. We always pinch just above a node, as this is where the new growth will emerge.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting should be a regular activity. We advise harvesting leaves as you need them, but never taking more than onethird of the plant at a time. This allows the plant to continue to photosynthesize and recover. When harvesting, we recommend using a pair of scissors or your fingers to snip or pinch the stem just above a set of leaves. This technique encourages new growth, similar to pruning.

The Prevention of Flowering

As the days get longer and temperatures rise, basil plants will naturally begin to "bolt," or produce a flower stalk. This is a sign that the plant is preparing to complete its life cycle. We must be vigilant in preventing this. As soon as a flower stalk begins to form, we recommend pinching it off immediately. This will redirect the plant's energy back to producing leaves and extend its productive life.

Common Pests and Diseases of Basil

Even with optimal growing conditions, basil can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Early detection and intervention are key to managing these issues.

Common Pests

Aphids: These small, softbodied insects feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and become distorted. We recommend a strong spray of water to dislodge them or a gentle application of insecticidal soap.

Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids are difficult to see with the naked eye. They create fine webbing on the plant and cause the leaves to appear stippled or speckled. A thorough spray with insecticidal soap is effective.

Slugs and Snails: These mollusks can cause significant damage, especially to young plants. We advise using organic methods like beer traps or sprinkling diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.

Whiteflies: These small, whitewinged insects congregate on the undersides of the leaves and fly up in a cloud when disturbed. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Common Diseases

Fusarium Wilt: This is a devastating fungal disease that causes the plant's leaves to yellow, curl, and wilt, often on one side of the plant. There is no cure for fusarium wilt. We recommend discarding the affected plant and not planting basil in the same soil for several years.

Downy Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a downy, grayishpurple growth on the undersides of the leaves. It thrives in cool, wet conditions. The best prevention is good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Powdery Mildew: This appears as a powdery, white coating on the leaves and stems. It is also a fungal disease that is common in humid environments with poor air circulation. We recommend a solution of baking soda and water or a fungicidal spray.

Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease causes small, dark, watersoaked spots on the leaves. It is often spread by water splashing from the soil. We advise avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good drainage.

The Nuances of Basil Varieties

While sweet basil is the most popular variety, the world of basil is vast and includes numerous cultivars with distinct flavors, colors, and growth habits. Understanding these differences can enhance your gardening and culinary experience.

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum): The most common variety, known for its classic, pungent flavor. It is the best choice for pesto and Italian dishes.

Genovese Basil: A cultivar of sweet basil, with large, tender leaves and a particularly strong aroma. It is often considered the best choice for traditional pesto.

Lemon Basil: A hybrid of sweet basil and African basil, this variety has a distinct citrusy, lemony flavor. It is excellent for use in fish dishes, teas, and salads.

Thai Basil: Known for its purple stems and flowers, and a more aniselike flavor. It is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Cinnamon Basil: As the name suggests, this variety has a warm, spicy flavor reminiscent of cinnamon. It is often used in desserts and teas.

Purple Ruffles Basil: A beautiful ornamental variety with ruffled, dark purple leaves. It has a slightly milder flavor than sweet basil and is a striking addition to salads.

Each variety has similar growing requirements, but some may be slightly more tolerant of cooler temperatures or different soil conditions. We recommend experimenting with different varieties to find the ones that best suit your taste and climate.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses of Basil

Beyond its cultivation, understanding the uses of basil adds another layer of appreciation for the plant. Its rich history and versatile applications make it a true culinary powerhouse.

Pesto: The most famous use of basil, pesto is a sauce made from crushed basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

Caprese Salad: A simple Italian salad of sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves, dressed with olive oil.

Infused Oils: Basil can be used to infuse olive oil, creating a flavorful condiment for salads, bread, and pasta.

Teas and Tisanes: Basil leaves can be used fresh or dried to make a calming and aromatic tea.

Medicinal Properties: Historically, basil has been used in traditional medicine for its antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

The Role of Basil in Polyculture and Companion Planting

We have found that basil is an excellent companion plant in the garden, providing benefits to other plants and benefiting from their presence.

Tomatoes: Basil is a classic companion to tomatoes. It is said to improve the flavor of tomatoes and can help to deter pests like tomato hornworms and whiteflies.

Peppers: Planting basil near pepper plants can deter aphids and other pests.

Asparagus: Basil can help to repel the asparagus beetle.

By integrating basil into a polyculture system, we can create a more resilient and productive garden ecosystem.

Preserving Basil: A Guide to Extending Your Harvest

The short life cycle of basil can be a challenge. We provide several methods for preserving your basil harvest so you can enjoy its flavor yearround.

Freezing: Freezing is the best way to preserve the fresh flavor of basil. The simplest method is to blanch the leaves for a few seconds, then shock them in ice water. Pat them dry and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Another effective method is to puree the basil with a small amount of olive oil and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays.

Drying: While drying basil is a classic method, it can cause the leaves to lose much of their volatile oil content and flavor. We recommend airdrying in a dark, wellventilated area or using a food dehydrator on a low setting.

Making Pesto: A large batch of pesto can be made and frozen in small portions. This is an excellent way to preserve a large harvest and have a readymade sauce for pasta and other dishes.

By following these preservation techniques, you can ensure that the delicious flavor of fresh basil is available to you long after the growing season has ended. Our exhaustive analysis of every facet of basil plant cultivation—from the initial seed to the final harvest—is designed to be the ultimate reference. We have meticulously detailed every aspect, offering precise metrics and proven strategies to guarantee success. We believe this guide will not only help you grow better basil but will also deepen your appreciation for the complexity and beauty of this extraordinary plant.

Meta Keywords: basil plant growing conditions, basil care, growing basil, basil sunlight, watering basil, basil soil, basil pests, basil diseases, how to grow basil, basil varieties, basil propagation, basil harvesting, best soil for basil, basil companion plants, indoor basil, outdoor basil, basil fertilization, basil temperature, basil plant, basil guide, growing herbs, gardening tips, expert basil guide