How can I keep my basil plant fresh in winter?
Holy basil plant is found in almost all indian household and to keep basil plant thriving and productive through the winter can be challenging because basil is a tender annual and doesn’t naturally survive frost. However, you can take steps to keep it fresh and evergreen indoors:
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Bring It Indoor: Basil is sensitive to cold, so move it inside before the temperature becomes chilly.
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Provide Adequate Light: Place your basil near a south-facing window to maximize natural sunlight. Adequate sunlight for 12-14 hours a day is required.
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Maintain Warm Temperatures: Basil thrives in temperatures between 21°C–27°C. Avoid placing it near drafts, cold windows, or heating vents that may dry it out.
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Monitor Watering: water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
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Humidity Matters: Basil loves humidity, so keep the surrounding air moist. Use a small humidifier near the plant.
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Prune Regularly: Pinch off the top leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth. Remove any flower buds immediately to redirect energy into leaf production.
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Feed Sparingly: Use a diluted, all-purpose balance fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the winter. Avoid over fertilizing.
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Consider Hydroponics: If you want an extra-productive winter setup, you can grow basil hydroponically to ensure consistent nutrients and water supply.