Watering basil is a bit of a challenge. The popular plant is sensitive to the wrong amount of water. Here you can find out how much water the popular spice plant needs.
In a nutshell
- When it comes to water requirements, the spice plant has high requirements
- Garden owners should not water them too much or too little
- Moisture on the leaves increases the risk of disease
- Daily watering is recommended in summer, and the need for water decreases in winter
The right measure
The water requirement of the spice plant Ocimum basilicum is comparatively high. Nevertheless, the plant does not like waterlogging. Otherwise, the risk of fungi attacking the roots increases. As a result, the growth would die.
In addition, drought also poses a risk to plant growth. If you water the plant too little, you increase its susceptibility. Pathogens and pests can infest the basil more easily. The leaves wilt and are less palatable.
Tip: Preferably grow the herb in a large pot. The more space the roots have, the better the water balance can regulate itself. Then the herb will forgive you if you have poured too little or too much liquid into the pot.
Depending on the season
Proper watering depends on the season. In summer you should water your plants daily to prevent drought stress. This is especially true during the cultivation phase. Basil needs sufficient water to root and grow. The dormant phase of the spice plant begins in late autumn. With less activity, the need for water decreases. As a result, daily watering is no longer necessary.
spare leaves
Basil is relatively delicate. When watering, be careful not to get the leaves wet. The moisture can cause leaf spot disease to develop. Depending on the type of cultivation, a different irrigation method is suitable:
- Pot: trivet for watering
- Open land: Irrigation close to the ground
When growing in a pot, the kitchen herb can be properly watered with the help of a saucer. The capillary forces ensure that the water pulls through the substrate. The basil is supplied with sufficient water while at the same time the leaves are protected.
frequently asked Questions
What requirements does basil place on the soil?When it comes to water requirements, the spice plant forgives few mistakes. At the same time, the plant needs sufficient nutrients so that the leaves taste aromatic and delicious. Needs-based and organic fertilization supports plant growth. The plants are preferably fertilized in spring after winter. The kitchen herb needs sufficient nitrogen. The soil should be nutrient-rich and permeable.
Are there any special features when caring for them in the pot?In principle, the same applies to cultivation in a pot as to cultivation in the garden bed. However, the root system of the plants in the pot is less pronounced. As a result, water and fertilization become more important as there are fewer nutrients and moisture within reach.
Which criteria apply to the location?The popular kitchen plant needs the right location. On the one hand she wants to be in the warm sun, while on the other hand protection from rain should be guaranteed.