How to Grow Basil Indoors – Yes, It’s Possible

February 7, 2025

Grow Lush Basil Indoors – A Beginner’s Guide

Basil is one of those plants that makes you feel like a gardening pro, even if you’ve barely kept a houseplant alive. It’s forgiving, it grows quickly, and let’s be honest—nothing beats the smell of fresh basil in the kitchen. Whether you dream of homemade pesto or just want to add a pop of green to your space, growing basil indoors is easier than you think.

Pick the Right Variety

Not all basil is equal. Some types, like Thai basil, have a spicy flavour perfect for stir-fries, while Genovese basil is the king of Italian cooking. If you’re a first-timer, sweet basil is the best choice. It grows fast, smells amazing, and suits almost any dish.

Give It Plenty of Light

Basil has one simple demand—light, and lots of it. Place it near a sunny window where it gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. If natural light is scarce, a small LED grow light will do the trick. Without proper light, basil becomes leggy and weak, and no one wants sad, spindly basil.

Use the Right Pot and Soil

Good drainage is everything. A pot with drainage holes stops the roots from drowning. For soil, go with a high-quality potting mix that drains well but holds enough moisture to keep the roots happy. Skip the garden soil—it can be too dense and may introduce pests.

Water, but Don’t Overdo It

Basil enjoys slightly moist soil, but it hates sitting in water. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a day. Overwatering leads to root rot, and that’s a fast track to a wilted disaster.

Feed It Some Goodness

A liquid fertiliser every couple of weeks keeps basil lush and flavourful. Choose an organic fertiliser, especially if you’ll be eating the leaves. Too much fertiliser can lead to lots of leaves but less flavour, so don’t go overboard.

Harvest Often to Keep It Thriving

The best part of growing basil is the constant supply of fresh leaves. When your plant has at least six sets of leaves, start picking. Pinch the top leaves to promote more growth and prevent it from going to seed too soon. If you’re harvesting handfuls, take no more than a third of the plant at a time to keep it strong and productive.

Keep an Eye Out for Pests

Indoor basil isn’t immune to pests like aphids or spider mites. If you spot unwanted visitors, rinse the leaves with a gentle stream of water or use a mild insecticidal soap. Healthy, well-cared-for plants are less likely to attract pests, so good care goes a long way.

Bonus Tip: Freeze Your Harvest

If your basil plant grows faster than you can use it, don’t let those leaves go to waste. Chop them up and freeze them in ice cube trays with olive oil or water. Pop the cubes into soups, sauces, or stir-fries for a burst of fresh flavour even in the cooler months.

Growing basil indoors isn’t just practical—it’s rewarding. With a little attention and the right setup, you can enjoy fragrant, homegrown basil all year round. Give it a go, and you’ll never look at store-bought basil the same way again.

Happy growing!

Candeece