Overview
- Common Name: Basil (Sweet Basil / Thai Basil / Holy Basil / Lemon Basil)
- Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
- Plant Type: Annual/Perennial herb (depending on variety and care)
- Uses: Culinary herb (Italian, Thai, Filipino dishes), medicinal, and insect-repelling
Best Varieties for the Philippines
| Variety | Description | Disadvantages | Typical Height |
|---|
| Sweet Basil (Genovese) | Classic Italian basil with large, tender leaves and a strong, sweet aroma; ideal for pesto and Mediterranean dishes. | Sensitive to heavy rain and high humidity; prone to fungal rot and leaf spots. | 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) |
| Thai Basil | Spicy, licorice or anise flavor; purple stems and small, sturdy leaves; excellent for stir-fry and curries. | Smaller leaves; slightly tougher texture compared to Genovese basil. | 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) |
| Holy Basil (Tulsi) | Highly aromatic, used for teas and medicinal purposes; thrives in hot, humid climates. | Leaves less flavorful for Western-style cooking; more pungent and peppery. | 40–60 cm (16–24 inches) |
| Lemon Basil | Light citrus aroma and mild flavor; great for teas, fish, and salads. | Sensitive to overwatering and prone to root rot if soil is not well-drained. | 25–40 cm (10–16 inches) |
🟢 Best Choice for Philippines: Thai Basil and Holy Basil — excellent resistance to heat and humidity.
Germination from Seeds
- Propagation: From seeds or cuttings
- Seed Treatment: No need for soaking or refrigeration
- How to Germinate:
- Sow seeds directly on moist soil or in trays.
- Cover lightly with 0.3–0.5 cm of soil or just press into surface (light aids germination).
- Mist gently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Germination Time: 5–10 days
- Ideal Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy or sandy loam with compost
- Why: Basil hates “wet feet” — roots rot easily in waterlogged soil.
- Sunlight Exposure (during germination): Bright indirect sunlight
Transplanting
- When to Transplant: 2–3 weeks after sowing or when 3–4 true leaves appear
- Spacing Between Plants: 20–25 cm apart
- How Deep: Transplant at the same soil level as in the seed tray
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon, on a cloudy day
- Sun Requirement: Full sun (6–8 hours/day minimum)
Growth & Soil Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun preferred, but tolerates partial shade (4–6 hrs).
- Watering: Water once daily in dry weather; avoid overwatering.
- Let topsoil dry slightly between watering.
- Soil Condition: Rich in organic matter, well-draining
- Avoid: Clayey or compacted soil — causes yellowing and root rot
- Mulching: Use dried leaves or rice hulls to retain moisture and prevent weeds
Fertilizer Needs
| Growth Stage | Fertilizer Type | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|
| Seedling / Early Growth | Diluted organic fertilizer or vermicast tea | Every 2 weeks | Strong roots and leaf development |
| Vegetative Stage | Nitrogen-rich (fish amino acid or urea solution 1 tbsp/gal) | Every 2 weeks | Promote lush, leafy growth |
| Mature / Harvesting Stage | Balanced 14-14-14 or compost | Every 3–4 weeks | Maintain leaf production and aroma |
⚠️ Tip: Too much fertilizer reduces flavor intensity — moderate feeding only.
Pruning & Maintenance
- Pinch off the top 2 sets of leaves when the plant reaches 15–20 cm tall to encourage bushy growth.
- Remove flowers regularly — flowering causes leaves to become bitter and growth to slow down.
- Harvesting: Cut stems above leaf nodes (do not pluck single leaves) to encourage regrowth.
- Rejuvenate: Cut back one-third of the plant every 4–6 weeks.
Common Pests & Diseases
| Problem | Symptoms | Organic Control / Prevention |
|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue, curled leaves | Spray neem oil or diluted dish soap weekly |
| Whiteflies | Tiny flying insects under leaves | Yellow sticky traps, neem oil |
| Fungal rot / Downy mildew | Black spots, yellowing | Avoid overhead watering, ensure air circulation |
| Snails / slugs | Chewed leaves | Crushed eggshell barriers or beer traps |
🟢 Natural Pest Repellent: Plant near tomatoes, chili, eggplants to repel pests.
Flowering & Fruiting
- Days to Flower: 45–60 days after sowing
- Action: Remove flower buds early to prolong leaf production
- If Seed Collection: Allow flowers to mature and dry before harvesting seeds
- Pollination: Self-pollinating and insect-assisted
Growth Conditions & Lifespan
- Lifespan: 6–12 months (annual, but can live longer with pruning)
- Can Regrow From: Stem cuttings (most reliable)
- Cut 10–15 cm stems, remove bottom leaves, soak in water for 5–7 days until roots form.
- Root Condition: Keep moist but never soggy
- Ideal Temperature: 24–32°C
- Humidity: Medium to high, but needs airflow
- Soil: Loamy, compost-enriched, well-draining
Best & Worst Planting Months (Philippine Climate)
| Season | Months | Recommendation |
|---|
| Dry Season (Amihan) | November – May | ✅ Best time; less fungal risk, high sunlight, strong aroma |
| Rainy Season (Habagat) | June – October | ⚠️ Avoid heavy rains; prone to root rot — grow in pots or raised beds with cover |
Additional Tips
- Companion Plants: Tomato, chili, marigold — repel pests and enhance growth.
- Avoid Planting With: Rue or sage (they stunt basil’s growth).
- Harvest Time: 30–45 days after transplanting; continue harvesting every week.
- Seed Saving: Collect from mature dried flower heads and store in a cool, dry place.
- Indoor Growing Tip: Place by a sunny window or balcony — rotate pot weekly for