Basil is one of the most used culinary herbs and one of the most commonly killed houseplants. The supermarket pots aren't meant to last — they're packed with multiple seedlings fighting for space. Here's how to actually keep basil thriving.
The Supermarket Pot Problem
A standard supermarket basil pot contains 10–30 seedlings all competing for root space. They're designed to last a week or two. Split the pot into smaller groups of seedlings as soon as you get home, or pot them all up into a larger container.
Light Requirements
Basil needs maximum light — a south-facing windowsill in full sun. Without enough light, stems become weak and leggy, and the flavour is poor.
Temperature
This is critical: basil hates cold. Keep above 15°C at all times. Don't put basil near cold windows in winter or leave it on a cold car seat when bringing it home.
Watering
Water from below (place pot in water for 20 minutes) to avoid wetting leaves, which can cause disease. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings — basil hates waterlogging, but also wilts dramatically when dry.
Harvesting
Harvest from the top, cutting stems just above a node with two leaves. Never strip the plant bare. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth.
Remove flower buds as soon as they appear. Once basil flowers, it stops producing good leaves. Pinch buds off weekly.
Growing from Seed
Sow April–May indoors at 20°C. Germination in 5–10 days. Sow thinly and don't overwater seedlings.
