In spite of predictable summer fog, July is one of the warmest months here on the North Coast which makes it an ideal month to plant basil. Basil thrives in warm soil along with long sunny days — most of the time we get both. And happily, local nurseries carry ample supplies of fresh basil grown by local growers. Here are a few tips for success:
PATROL FIRST: The first thing that must be done before planting out basil is to rid the planting area of slugs and snails — hunt, trap, bait, whatever must be done. Slugs and snails have a hearty appetite for basil and will decimate a planting overnight.
ENRICH SOIL: Basil thrives in a rich, moist soil. If you are planting in containers, use a top-quality potting soil that is packed with nutrients. When planting in the ground, amend the soil with heaping doses of compost and composted manures.
FEED ’EM: Basil is a heavy feeder, especially when it comes to nitrogen. The goal is to force the plants to put on an abundance of thick leaves. Apply a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer at planting. Then feed about every two weeks. Basil also responds well to high-nitrogen blood meal.
ADD WATER: At harvest, you are aiming for an abundance of thick, succulent leaves and stems. Keeping basil well-watered and not allowing it to dry out to wilt point is the key to success. Basil under water stress will flower too early, become woody and small.
PINCH: At planting time, tip pinch back young plants to encourage bushiness. Cut off any flowers that may appear.
PLANT MORE: Basil can be planted from now through September. To assure a steady supply all summer long be sure to plant a few starts every two to three weeks.
Terry Kramer is the retired site manager for the Humboldt Botanical Garden and a trained horticulturist and journalist. She has been writing a garden column for the Times-Standard since 1982. She currently runs a gardening consulting business. Contact her at 707-834-2661 or terrykramer90@gmail.com.
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