How to Fix an Overwatered Holy Basil

In-Ground Holy Basil

• 1

  Let the soil of a holy basil planted in the ground dry. Wait until the soil at least 1 inch below the soil surface feels dry to your fingers' touch.

• 2

  Spread a 3- to 6-inch-thick layer of pine bark, compost or manure on top of the soil around the holy basil plant. That organic matter will help the soil drain better and add nutrients essential for plant growth.

• 3

  Work the organic matter into the soil with a spade or garden fork, careful not to disturb the holy basil, including its roots. Loosening the soil creates air pockets around the plant's roots, and the air pockets may help dry the plant.

• 4

  Remove everything that shades the holy basil or overcrowds it. Basil needs as much full sunlight as possible. Removing those objects also will help keep the soil dry.

Container-Grown Holy Basil

• 5

  Check the drainage capabilities of the container in which a holy basil plant grows. The plant needs a container that has holes in its bottom. The container should have a water-catch tray on which it sits. Ensure the container's bottom holes aren't blocked and that the container isn't sitting in water.

• 6

  Let the container's soil dry to a depth of about 2 inches. Tilt the container, and tap its sides to loosen the soil and to create air pockets around the plant's roots.

• 7

  Repot the holy basil into a new, dry container that has bottom drainage holes. Use new potting soil, but do not water the plant's soil after you repot the plant.

• 8

  Place the holy basil where it will receive full sunlight, and set its container on a water-catch tray. Wait until the plant's soil is dry to the touch, and water the soil only until it is barely moist.