Location & Sunlight:
Plant in garden beds, raised beds, or containers with full sun exposure (6–8 hours daily). Basil thrives in warm conditions and grows best in a sunny, sheltered location. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch.
Soil:
Prefers well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost or aged organic matter. Maintain slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid compacted or waterlogged soil, which can cause root problems.
Watering:
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, increasing during hot or dry weather. Water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting leaves to reduce disease.
Fertilizer:
Apply a light, balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks, or use compost tea as needed. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flavor intensity and encourage excessive leaf growth.
Spacing & Growth Habit:
Space plants 8–12 inches apart. Basil ‘Dolce Fresca’ is a compact, bushy variety, growing 8–12 inches tall with dense, rounded growth and bright green, aromatic leaves.
Harvest:
Begin harvesting when plants reach 6–8 inches tall. Pinch stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching. Regular harvesting prevents flowering and promotes continuous leaf production. Leaves are sweet, tender, and ideal for fresh use, pesto, salads, and cooking.
Location & Sunlight:
Plant Tulsi basil in garden beds or containers with full sun to partial shade. It grows best with 6–8 hours of sunlight, but tolerates light shade in very hot climates. Warm temperatures are essential for healthy growth.
Soil:
Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil enriched with compost. Maintain slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot.
Watering:
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment. Once mature, Tulsi is somewhat drought tolerant. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, watering at the base of the plant.
Fertilizer:
Minimal fertilization is required. If needed, apply a light balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Excess fertilizer can reduce aroma and medicinal quality.
Spacing & Growth Habit:
Space plants 12–18 inches apart. Tulsi grows in an upright, bushy form, reaching 18–24 inches tall, with aromatic green or purple-tinged leaves and woody stems as it matures.
Harvest:
Begin harvesting once plants reach 8–10 inches tall. Pinch stems regularly to encourage branching and delay flowering. Leaves are highly aromatic and commonly used fresh or dried for teas, cooking, and traditional herbal remedies.