Make growing basil in pots a snap with these simple tips.
Bob Stefko
Theres no such thing as too muchbasil if you love making pestoand cooking with fresh herbs.
Try different basil varieties.
Credit:Bob Stefko
Genovese basil is the most popular basil variety for pesto making andCaprese salads.
Choose the right pot.
Basil plants are relatively small, so you dont need a massive pot to keep them happy.
Provide plenty of light.
Grow basil from seeds.
If you start basil seedlings indoors, dont rush to put them outside in spring.
Unlike lavender and other Mediterranean herbs, basil loves water and moist soil.
Aim your hose or watering can at the soil line to keep basil leave dry and mildew-free.
While basil is not a heavy feeder, the extra nutrients will help plants grow even better.
Pinch back growing stems.
This will make basil bushier and help you grow a larger harvest of fresh leaves.
If youre keeping your basil outdoors, be on the lookout foraphids,Japanese beetles, andslugs.
Basil is a particularly goodcompanion plant for potted tomatoes, as basils aromatic leaves help repel certain pests.
However, basil also grows beautifully with potted peppers, eggplants, and manyroot veggies.
