We all have that one herb we cannot do without in our kitchen; basil has become one of those herbs that just seems to make everything better. This little green herb is well-known for its distinct aroma and flavor. But basil isn’t just a flavoring element; it is a potent herb with plenty of health benefits. This versatile herb is grown indoors or outdoors and pairs wonderfully with other garden plants. Growing basil is easy – as long as you understand its requirements.
Let’s explore all the details of this herb, why you should grow it, and how to maintain it in your garden. Get ready to embark on a journey into the world of the magic of basil. And learn which varieties are my favorite!
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Benefits of Basil
Basil is not only a versatile herb in the kitchen, but it also offers health benefits that make it an essential part of your diet. The herb’s most notable benefits include its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Basil can help fight a range of health issues, from treating a common cold to alleviating chronic pains like osteoarthritis. It can also help lower blood sugar levels. Basil contains phytochemicals, which help prevent free radical damage that can cause injury and disease. So next time, when you’re cooking pasta with basil, remember that you’re doing yourself and your family a favor. And adding amazing flavor at the same time!
Versatility of Basil
One of the best things about basil is its versatility in the kitchen. This herb goes great with a wide range of dishes, including Italian sauces, Thai curries, and even cocktails. One of my favorite martinis is a Grapefruit Basil Martini…. So refreshing!
It can be used fresh or dried, depending on your recipe. You can even make your own homemade pesto sauce with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Why Grow Basil in Your Garden?
Growing basil is relatively easy, but a few tips will help maintain its freshness and flavor. With proper maintenance, you’ll be rewarded with an endless supply of aromatic and fresh basil leaves.
Basil loves sunlight and warm weather, so it’s perfect for growing in warmer climates. Moreover, it’s great for small-space gardening. You can plant basil in small pots and keep it indoors near the window.
It’s an annual herb, meaning it completes its life cycle in a year, so you need to plant it every season. Growing basil in your garden saves you money as buying fresh basil every time you need it can get expensive. Once harvested, you can dry and store it for future use. Plus, when you grow your basil, it’s free from pesticides and preservatives found in the store-bought ones.
How to Maintain Basil in Your Garden
To get the most out of your basil plant, it’s important to maintain it properly. To maintain basil in your garden, you need to pay attention to watering and pruning. Water it enough to keep the soil moist, but not too much, or it will lead to root rot.
You should harvest the leaves frequently to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from going to seed too quickly. Prune basil regularly to promote bushier growth and prevent it from getting too leggy. Pinch off the tops before it flowers to prevent the plant from going to seed and to encourage more leaves. Removing the flowers also increases the flavor and aroma of the leaves.
With just a little bit of care, your basil plant will thrive and provide you with fresh, delicious herb all season long.
Companion Plants for Basil
Basil grows well with other plants in the garden and can be a beneficial companion plant to other vegetables and herbs. Planting basil can help deter pests like mosquitoes and flies and protect other plants from disease. Basil pairs especially well with tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, as these plants benefit from basil’s anti-bacterial and insect-repelling properties. It’s also great to grow basil alongside borage, which can increase the herb’s flavor profile and growth.
Learn more about the benefits of companion planting by reading → Companion Planting: How to Make Your Plants BFFs
My Favorite Varieties of Basil
Basil comes in different varieties, each with their unique aroma, flavor, and health benefits. I’ve come to love the various varieties of basil to not only elevate the flavor of my dishes (or beverages) but also offer some great health benefits.
- Lemon Basil: This delicious variety of basil smells like lemon and has a slightly sweet taste. It’s a great addition to summer salads, roasted vegetables, and marinades. Lemon basil is also a natural insect repellent and has antibacterial properties that can help fend off harmful bacteria.
- Lime Basil: Lime basil is a bit tangy and has a distinct citrus flavor. It’s the perfect addition to cocktails, sauces, and salads. Aside from its delightful taste, lime basil has several benefits such as reducing inflammation, promoting healthy digestion, and even helping to prevent certain types of cancer.
- Cardinal Basil: This stunning variety of basil has a deep reddish-purple hue and a sweet, spicy flavor. It’s a great addition to pasta dishes, tomato sauce, and even pizza. Cardinal basil is also a rich source of vitamin K, which is essential for proper blood clotting, bone health, and brain function.
- Sweet Basil: The classic sweet basil has a strong, fragrant aroma and a slightly spicy taste. This is the most commonly used basil in cooking and is a perfect match for pasta, pizza, and seafood dishes. Sweet basil also has several health benefits that range from anti-inflammatory properties to promoting healthy skin and hair.
- Holy Basil: Holy basil (also know as tulsi in Ayurveda) is considered a sacred herb and is widely used in traditional Indian medicine. Holy basil has a spicy, clove-like flavor and is a great addition to curries, soups, and stir-fries. This variety is known to reduce stress, boost the immune system, and lower cholesterol levels. I take a Holy Basil supplement daily.
Who knew basil was such a versatile herb with a variety of benefits in the garden? It’s not just a flavoring herb; it’s a powerhouse herb with numerous health benefits. By growing basil in your garden, you’re not only adding a flavorful kick to your dishes, but you’re also embracing a low-stress gardening experience. Basil requires minimal maintenance and can pair excellently with other garden plants to create a healthy garden environment. So what are you waiting for? Start growing basil today and reap its many benefits!
What are your favorite varieties and uses of basil? Leave a comment below to share!
