Have you ever dreamed of having fresh basil always available, without having to buy it every time? With a few tricks, you can grow it and reproduce it infinite at your home, without any additional expense.
Il basil is one of the aromatic plants More loved and used in the kitchen. Its unmistakable perfume and the intense flavor enrich numerous dishes, from the classic caprese to the delightful Genoese pesto. Unfortunately, the seedlings purchased at the supermarket often last little and they ruin quickly. The good news? You can learn to propagate it easilyobtaining a continuous and luxuriant escort, without ever having to buy it again.
Following a few simple steps, you can transform a single plant into a source inexhaustible of basil. Just collect cuttings, make them root and transplant them carefully. In doing so, you will always have fresh and fragrant leaves For your recipes. In addition, growing basil at home will allow you to have greater control over its quality and avoid the use of chemical pesticides often present in commercial plants. Let’s see how to do it!
How to propagate the basil and have an infinite stock
The Propagation of basil It is a simple process, but it requires attention to some details. Choose a healthy and robust mother plant It is the first fundamental step. A plant in good condition will guarantee strongest cuttings and faster rooting.
To start, take sharp scissors and cut a sideways about 10-15 cm. Make sure you have at least Two pairs of leavesleaving the upper ones intact and removing the lower. This will favor the growth of the roots. At this point, immerse the base of the cutting in a glass of water and place it in a bright place, but without direct sunlight.
After about 5-10 daysyou should notice the first roots that begin to form. When the roots are at least long a couple of centimetersit will be time to transplant the cutting into pot. Use a well draining soilspecific for aromatic plants, and water in moderation. In a short time, the new seedling will begin to grow strong and luxuriant. Remember not to expose the plant to the direct sun to avoid stress to the newly trained roots.
Treatment and maintenance of new plants
Once transplanted, the New basil plants They will need regular care to grow healthy and lush. Follow these tips to ensure optimal growth:
- Ideal positioning: Basil loves the lucebut prefers aindirect exposure. Avoid the sun too strong, which could burn the leaves.
- Balanced watering: Keep the dampbut without stagnation of water. Too much water can make the roots rot.
- Regular pruning: Frequently cuts the peaks of the plant to stimulate compact and abundant growth.
- Light fertilization: A liquid fertilizer for aromatic plants, administered each 2-4 weekshelps to maintain vigorous basil.
- Parasites protection: Periodically check the plant to identify any parasites such as aphids or little midges. If necessary, use natural remedies such as Neem oil or an infusion of garlic to protect it.
With these simple tricks, your plant will grow strong and sanaguaranteeing you a continuous harvest.
How to repeat the process for an infinite stock
You really want Never buy again basil? The secret is regularly repeating the process of propagation. Every time your plant becomes large enough, you can take new ones cuttryroot them in water and transplant them again.
Following this technique, you will always have an abundant escort and fresh basil Available in every season. Also, you can also give seedlings To your friends and family, spreading this simple and sustainable practice. If you have more space, you can create a real corner dedicated to aromatic herbs, combining basil with other useful plants such as rosemary, mint and parsley.
In addition to saving money, cultivating basil at home brings numerous benefits. Improve air quality, allows you to always have fresh ingredients and contributes to your well -being thanks to the pleasure of cultivation. Put these advice into practice and enjoy the pleasure of grow your basil without limits!
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