Basil

Does anyone have a magic formula for growing basil? I have tried to grow is from seed, from a plant (from the supermarket), indoors, outdoors (in the Channel Islands), in shade, sun, you name it, I've tried it, but always meet with failure. If it was that difficult, then it would be very expensive to buy in the supermarket, but it isn't, so where am I going wrong?

 

I think Basil is best grown in a greenhouse. I did grow it some years ago, and didn't find any real problems. But having said that, I think it likes a fair amount of heat and humidity to do well.

 

I was searching the web recently for houseplant watering systems and came across a product called Osmogro. The web site claims remarkable results for growing basil. I am trying to find out if anyone has any experience with the product as I am interested in possibly trying it for my own houseplants including herbs.

 

Re osmogro. I have heard of the product and i know it is really new. As far as i know the developers are currently going all out to promote it and it should be available in B&Q and Dobies soon. The science behind it makes sense as it should keep water availability stable over a long time and reduce the stresses of drying out and waterlogging. I will be giving it a go if i see it in the shops. Would be interested to hear what others think about it.

 

Regarding basil, I agree with Pete that kept wet and warm are the best conditions in which to grow it. I have never had a problem with it and always grow a few plants alongside my tomatoes in the greenhouse border..... just wish I could grow Mozzerella cheese to go with it - what a combination!

[ March 09, 2005, 08:06 PM: Message edited by: skrumpy ]

 

Re osmogro i can let you lot know on monday when it'll be in B&Q stores as i work for them myself.

 

pmsl LOL @ skrumpy

 

Thanks for all the information, heat & humidity is one combination I haven't tried, so will do that. Here's to a summer of fresh basil, vine tomatoes, mozarella cheese & olive oil. Yum!

 

Foxtrot - don't forget the nicely chilled Sancere to wash it down with!

 

Yeah, what Pete said. In a greenhouse is probably best.