How to Care for Basil Plants Outdoors

In the 1600s, basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum) were believed to be a cure for depression, and the plant's juice was used as a headache remedy. Today, basil is enjoyed in a variety of dishes and is an important component in Italian cuisine. A frost-tender member of the mint family, basil is a perennial but grown as an annual outdoors in colder regions. Depending upon variety, basil should be grown outdoors within U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 through 11. Check your seed packet to make sure the variety you are growing is suited for outdoor growth in your area.

Calcium nitrate
Pine needles or shredded leaves
Soaker hose
Pruning shears
Planting pots
Potting soil

Instructions

- 1
  Fertilize the outdoor basil plants with calcium nitrate at the rate of 1/2 lb. per 100 square feet. Apply the fertilizer by sprinkling it 2 inches away from the basil plant, completely surrounding it, and watering to a depth of 4 inches.
- 2
  Apply a 3-inch layer of pine needles or shredded leaves to the soil around the basil plants. This mulch material helps insulate the soil and discourages weed growth.
- 3
  Use a soaker hose, set 2 inches away from the basil plants, to slowly and deeply supply them with 1 inch of water per week.
- 4
  Pinch 1/2 inch off the tips of new basil stems to promote the growth of new branches. Remove flowers as soon as they are produced.
- 5
  Cut the basil plants to the soil before the first frost. If you want to save the plants, dig them up and plant in pots filled with standard potting soil. Give the basil plants a sunny area indoors and water enough to keep the soil barely moist.

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