How to Plant Basil in Containers

Choose a container that is sized to fit the species and size of basil you want to grow. Some basil species grow compact and some grow almost shrub-like. A 10-12 inch in diameter potting container will comfortably grow a single basil plant variety. Using this size gives the plant room for its roots to spread adequately.

Make sure the container has drainage holes in the base, and then add small stones or broken pieces of clay plant pots to the containers' base. This ensures that water drains well, yet the soil stays in the pot and the plant's roots don't rot from soaking in water.

Add a high-quality potting mix to the potting container. Many brands have a timed fertilizer in the mix for healthy plant growth. A similar mix can be made with two parts regular potting soil, one part peat moss and half-a-part of perlite. Purchasing a ready mix is easier and readily available at most garden centers.

Insert your finger into the soil to make a hole for smaller seedlings or use a larger hand tool to make a hole for larger, sturdier plants with a bigger root system. The hole should be just deep enough to cover the roots and a short portion of the basil plant's stem.

Tamp down soil gently around basil and water generously. Watering from the base of the potting container is preferable so the plant's stem doesn't rot before it gets stronger and larger. If planted in a strawberry pot, bottom watering is not feasible. For this type container, gently water the soil around the plant without flooding over the plant itself.

Place the container outdoors in a semisunny location if in a warm climate. Basil is tender and can burn easily in hotter areas; therefore, partial shade is suggested to grow healthier plants. In colder temperatures, basil is easily grown indoors in a sunny window.

Harvest the leaves of the basil plant at any point after it develops a number of leaves. Cut it back periodically from the top to allow the plant to grow full and lush. Pick and discard any leaves that turn brown.