Basil: Growing, Caring, and Storing this Garden Favorite

Basil has quickly become one of my favorite herbs to grow. This is my second season growing it, and after spending the winter reading and researching, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned. Basil is fragrant, versatile, and surprisingly easy to grow once you know its needs. Whether you want to grow it in your garden, on your windowsill, or preserve it for later, basil has a place in any kitchen.

Growing Basil

🛠️ Tools and Supplies for Growing Basil

  • Small pots or containers with drainage holes (if growing indoors)

  • Raised garden bed or a sunny outdoor spot with rich soil

  • Hand trowel and watering can

  • Mulch for outdoor beds

  • Sharp scissors or pruning shears for harvesting

I grow my basil in a raised garden bed I bought a few of years ago, and I still love it.
👉 Here’s the one I use from Amazon if you're looking for something simple and sturdy (Amazon affiliate link).

🌱 Basil Growing Season in Michigan

In Michigan (zone 6), basil thrives during the warm months. It’s a heat-loving herb and cannot tolerate frost. You can plant basil outdoors in late May after the danger of frost has passed. Basil grows best in full sun and warm soil, so giving it a sunny, sheltered spot will make it flourish.

🏡 Growing Basil Indoors

If you want basil year-round, you can grow it indoors. Place it in a south-facing window where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight. If that’s not possible, a simple grow light works well. Use a container with good drainage and rich potting soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Indoor basil benefits from occasional feeding with a diluted liquid fertilizer.

✂️ Pruning Basil

Pruning is the key to healthy, bushy basil. Always pinch or cut just above a leaf pair, never leaving a bare stem. This encourages side growth and prevents the plant from getting leggy. If you see flower buds forming, pinch them off immediately. Once basil flowers, the leaves lose much of their flavor. Regular pruning every week or two ensures a steady supply of leaves all season long.

🧺 Storing Basil

One of the best things about basil is how many ways you can preserve it. Here are several techniques:

  1. In a Vase with Water
    Trim the stems and place basil in a jar of water, just like cut flowers. Store it on your counter at room temperature. Basil does not like the cold, so avoid the refrigerator.

  2. Packed in Kosher Salt
    Layer fresh basil leaves with kosher salt in a jar. The salt helps preserve the flavor and can be used in cooking as well.

  3. Frozen in Olive Oil
    Chop basil and pack it into ice cube trays. Cover with olive oil and freeze. Pop out the cubes and store them in a freezer bag for quick additions to soups, pastas, or sautés.

  4. Frozen Fresh Leaves
    Wash, dry, and place whole basil leaves in a Ziplock bag. They will darken slightly but keep their flavor.

  5. Drying
    Air-dry basil by hanging bunches upside down in a dry, airy space. Once brittle, crumble and store in a jar. A dehydrator is another quick option. Check out my post on Drying Fresh Herbs in an Air Fryer.

  6. Herb Spreads
    Blend basil with olive oil, garlic, or cheese to create spreads like pesto. These can be frozen in small containers for future use.

  7. Basil Vinegar or Oil
    Infuse vinegar or olive oil with basil leaves for a flavorful way to preserve the herb. Check out my post on Herb-Infused Oils and Vinegars.

🌼 Fun Facts About Basil

  • Basil belongs to the mint family, which explains its fragrant leaves.

  • There are over 60 varieties of basil, including sweet basil, Thai basil, lemon basil, and purple basil.

  • In some cultures, basil symbolizes love and good luck.

  • Basil’s name comes from the Greek word basileus, meaning “king,” which is fitting for such a beloved herb.

  • Fresh basil is most flavorful when picked in the morning before the sun gets hot.

📝 Simple Wrap-Up

Basil is one of those plants that brings joy to both the gardener and the cook. From its vibrant aroma to its endless uses in the kitchen, it has quickly become a staple in my garden. With simple care such as plenty of sun, regular pruning, and thoughtful storage, you can enjoy basil fresh all summer and preserved long into winter.

If you enjoyed this, you might like some of my other gardening posts where I share more about what’s growing in my backyard. 

What is your favorite way to use basil in your kitchen? Share in the comments.

Sensibly and simply yours,
Kat

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Location: Michigan, USA

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