It was by placing this pot in the east that my basil finally lasted the summer Basil, the protagonist of French cuisine, is often the victim of a cruel fate: it withers within a few days, leaving fans of pasta with pesto or Mediterranean salads disappointed. However, there is a simple solution: place the pot east. This gesture, combined with proven cultivation techniques, helps to prolong the life of this delicate plant. Find out how to turn your basil into a hardy plant, even under the summer sun.
Repot immediately after purchase
The first step towards a vigorous basil is in urgent repotting. Plants sold in pots are often crowded, with compressed roots. Peter the Farmer recommends moving them to a terracotta pot from 15 to 20 cm in diameterproviding sufficient space for the root system. This material, porous and breathable, prevents excess humidity while maintaining a stable temperature.
Suitable soil : Opt for a specific substrate for aromatic plants, rich in organic matter. Avoid all-purpose potting soils, which are often too compact for basil roots.
A strategic position: the orientation is
THE’eastern exposure it is crucial. The morning sun, less intense than the midday sun, allows the basil to gradually heat up without burning. This orientation also limits the risk of overheating, while still providing From 4 to 6 hours of light daily, ideal for photosynthesis.
To be avoided :
- North windows (excessive shade)
- South balconies (direct sun and wind)
- Kitchens (dry heat and lack of light)
Light-temperature balance: key to survival
Soft light, combined with basil
Basil, native to the Mediterranean regions, it does not tolerate direct sun well. A semi-shaded position is preferable, with periods of indirect light. Indoors, place it near a window facing east or northeast, avoiding the scorching midday rays.
Trick : use a transparent translucent to filter bright light. This reduces the ambient temperature while preserving photosynthesis.
Ideal temperatures: between 15°C and 25°C
Basil is sensitive to thermal differences. During the day a temperature between 20°C and 25°C favors its growth. At night the temperature must remain above 15°C to avoid stress.
Practical advice :
- Outdoors, protect it from cool nights with a mulching or a winter veil.
- Inside, keep a stable humidity (50-60%) to limit perspiration.
Irrigation and fertilization: the art of measurement
Morning watering, a winning technique
THE’regular but moderate watering it is essential. Water the basil In the morningavoiding wetting the leaves to prevent diseases. The land must remain moist but not soggy. In summer increase the frequency (every 2 days outdoors), but in winter reduce it.
Signs of water stress :
- Withered leaves: lack of water
- Blackened leaves: excess humidity
Targeted fertilization: growth stimulation
A light fertilization it is necessary to compensate for soil depletion. Use a liquid organic fertilizer (compost or chicken manure) diluted to half dose, applied every 3 weeks. Avoid concentrated nitrogen fertilizers, which favor the stems at the expense of the leaves.
Alternative : Add wood ashes to the soil to improve its structure and ability to retain water.
Daily maintenance: pruning and harvesting
Regular pruning: the secret of a stocked basil
Pinch them flower buds as soon as they appear it is essential. This diverts the plant’s energy towards producing leaves rather than flowers. Usage sterilized scissors to avoid infections.
Technique :
- Locate the tallest stems
- Cut them 2 cm from the ground
- Leave 2-3 leaves per branch to maintain photosynthesis
Optimal harvest: morning and leaf by leaf
Basil is harvested leaf by leaf as soon as the plant reaches 15 cm. Favor him morningwhen the leaves are more fragrant. Avoid cutting entire stems, as this will weaken the plant.
Conservation :
- Fraîche : Place the leaves in a glass of water in the refrigerator (up to 1 week).
- Dry : Spread them out on absorbent paper, then store them in airtight jars.
Common mistakes: traps to avoid
Too much sun: the trap of southern balconies
Expose the basil to a prolonged direct sun it’s a common mistake. The leaves dry out, the stems turn black and the plant dies within a few days. Outdoors, choose shaded areas in the afternoon.
Solution : use a parasol oh trellis to filter the light between 11am and 3pm.
Night watering: fungal risk
Watering in the evening is a serious mistake. Nighttime humidity favors the development of cryptogamic diseases (botrytis, downy mildew). The leaves become covered with black spots and the plant dies quickly.
Alternative : Always water before 10am to let the soil dry before sunset.
: a resistant basil, it is possible
Combining immediate repotting, the exposure is, morning watering et regular sizeyour basil will become a robust plant. These techniques, validated by experts, transform a fragile plant into a reliable kitchen companion.
Next step : Experiment with resistant varieties such as Thai basil or the lemon basiladapted to warm climates.
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