Basil is one of those herbs that instantly makes your space feel alive, fresh, green, and just a little magical. Whether you’re growing it on a sunny kitchen windowsill or adding it to your garden, basil loves warmth, light, and gentle attention.
Light & Temperature:
Place your basil where it can soak up at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. Indoors, a south-facing window or a grow light works beautifully. Basil is happiest in warm air around 70°F and doesn’t like cold drafts.
Watering:
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Basil wilts quickly when thirsty, so regular watering helps it stay lush and flavorful.
Feeding:
A light feeding every 3 to 4 weeks with a balanced, organic fertilizer encourages new growth and keeps the leaves tender.
Repotting Tips:
If your basil starts to outgrow its pot or roots peek through the drainage holes, it’s time to size up. Move it into a container about 2 inches wider with well-draining potting mix. Gently loosen the roots before replanting, and water thoroughly after. Avoid burying the stem too deep.
Harvesting:
Pinch leaves from the top to encourage bushy growth. Always leave a few sets of leaves on the plant so it can keep growing strong.
Fun fact: Regularly trimming your basil not only gives you fresh herbs for cooking, it actually makes your plant healthier and fuller over time.
Want to grow your own? You can find Small Cat Grove’s live basil plants here on Etsy, shipped with care from our little grove to your home.