How to Grow Basil from Store bought cut Basil
Want to grow basil from store-bought cuttings? Learn how to turn fresh supermarket basil into a thriving plant with this easy propagation method!
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum L.
Basil (basilico) is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow, and if you’ve ever bought a fresh pack of cut basil from the store, you might be wondering, can I turn these stems into a thriving basil plant? The answer is a resounding yes! With a little patience and the right method, those supermarket basil stems can grow into a lifetime supply.
Choosing the Right Basil Stems
The success of propagating basil herb from store-bought cuttings starts with selecting the freshest stems. Here’s what to look for:
- Bright green, healthy leaves with no black spots or wilting.
- Firm, non-blackened stems.
- Avoid basil that looks like it has been sitting for too long.
Prepping the Basil Cuttings
Once you have your fresh basil stems, follow these steps to prepare them for propagation:
- Trim the Base: Cut about half an inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle to encourage root growth.
- Remove Extra Leaves: Strip off the lower leaves, leaving only a small set (2-4 leaves) at the top. Too many leaves will slow down the rooting process.
- Optional Rooting Hormone: Some gardeners swear by dipping the cut ends in rooting hormone, but basil is known to root easily in water without it.
Rooting Basil in Water
Basil cuttings root best in water before being transplanted into soil. Here’s how:
- Place the trimmed stems in a glass of room-temperature water.
- Ensure the majority of the stem is submerged, but keep the leaves above water to prevent rot.
- Use a clear glass so you can monitor root growth.
- Keep the glass in a bright, warm spot, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
- Change the water every 2-3 days to prevent bacterial growth.
What to Expect During Rooting
After about a week, you should see tiny white roots forming. However, rooting time can vary depending on freshness, temperature, and light conditions. Some cuttings may struggle, showing signs of blackened stems or wilting leaves. If this happens, remove the affected cuttings and focus on the healthy ones.
Transplanting to Soil
Once the roots are about 2 inches long, the basil cuttings are ready to be moved to soil. Follow these steps:
- Choose the Right Pot: Use small individual pots with drainage holes to give each plant enough room to grow.
- Select Well-Draining Soil: Basil thrives in light, well-draining potting soil. A mix with compost or perlite works well.
- Plant the Cuttings: Dig a small hole and gently place the rooted cutting in, filling the soil around it up to the first set of leaves.
- Water Thoroughly: Give the plants a deep watering to help the soil settle and encourage root establishment.
- Place in Bright Light: Basil needs plenty of sunlight, at least 6-8 hours a day. If growing indoors, a sunny window or grow lights will work.
Caring for Your Basil Plants
Once your basil is in soil, it needs regular care to thrive:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Pruning for Bushy Growth: Regularly pinch off the top set of leaves to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
- Preventing Flowering: If you see flower buds forming, pinch them off. Once basil flowers, the leaves turn bitter.
- Fertilizing: A light application of organic fertilizer every few weeks will keep basil healthy.
Harvesting Your Basil
Once your basil plant is established, you can start harvesting! Use clean scissors or your fingers to snip leaves as needed. Always leave some leaves behind so the plant can continue to grow.
Conclusion
Growing basil from store-bought cuttings is an easy and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh herbs all year round. Even if some cuttings don’t make it, a 50% success rate still means free basil plants! With proper care, you can keep your basil thriving and enjoy fresh pesto, salads, and garnishes straight from your own mini herb garden.
