How do you keep basil alive indoors?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.To properly care for basil indoors, it is essential to know that basil originates from the Mediterranean region. After killing three basil plants due to overwatering, I learned that these herbs prefer bright light and warm temperatures similar to their native land. Basil should be placed in front of a south-facing window, as it grows best with about 5-6 hours of direct sun each day. Rotate the pots weekly to ensure they grow evenly.
Water makes or breaks indoor basil. Check soil moisture using the first knuckle of your finger. Only water deeply when it appears dry. Use room temperature water and don't wet the leaves. Pro tip: water it in the morning so excess moisture can dry out by night. This way you can avoid fungal disease.
Light Management
- Provide 5-6 hours direct sunlight daily
- Use full-spectrum LEDs during winter months
- Rotate plants weekly for even exposure
- Watch for leggy growth indicating light deficiency
Watering Technique
- Water only when top soil inch is dry
- Use bottom-watering method for deep hydration
- Ensure pots have proper drainage holes
- Reduce watering frequency during winter
Temperature Control
- Maintain 70-80°F daytime temperatures
- Avoid cold drafts below 60°F
- Use heating mats for seedlings
- Monitor with thermometer near plants
To keep plants productive, maintaining a balanced nutrient level is crucial. Six weeks after planting is the ideal time to start fertilizing. Pick a balanced organic formula, then dilute it to half of the recommended strength. Fertilize the plant once a month when it is actively growing. I use leftover coffee grounds mixed into the soil for slow-release nitrogen. Always water your plants before fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Regular clipping produces more bushy results. I clip the top leaves weekly just above a leaf node to stimulate lateral branching. This is very helpful for basil. Do not remove more than 1/3 of the plant at a time. This is one of the very productive weekly harvests that gives me fresh basil, while keeping the plants stocky and fruitful for the year.
Read the full article: How to Grow Basil Indoors Successfully
