Herbs
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in Herbs
Best Basil Varieties to Grow in Your Garden
With its rich aroma, lush leaves, and fast-growing nature, basil is one of the most beloved herbs in the home garden. But basil isn’t just one plant—it’s a diverse group of cultivars and species with unique flavors, forms, and purposes. Whether you’re growing basil for pesto, teas, or ornamental interest, there’s a variety perfectly suited […] More
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in Herbs
Get to Know Basil (Basil History, Types, and Fun Facts)
If you’ve ever grown basil in your garden or added it fresh to a tomato salad, you know this fragrant herb has a way of stealing the show. But beyond its delicious aroma and flavor, basil has a rich history, a wide variety of types, and some surprising characteristics that make it a staple in […] More
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in Herbs
Propagating Basil Made Easy: Grow from Seed or Cuttings
Grow your basil garden from seed or cuttings with ease As someone who has grown basil for more than 30 years in raised beds, containers, and kitchen windows, I’ve found basil to be one of the most rewarding herbs to propagate. Whether you’re starting a new planting or multiplying a favorite variety, basil is easy […] More
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25 Delicious Ways to Use Basil in the Kitchen (With Tips from a Gardener-Cook)
As a lifelong gardener and home cook, I’ve grown and used dozens of basil varieties over the years—from classic Genovese to purple opal and Thai basil. Each one brings its own unique flavor and aroma to the kitchen. Here’s how I use fresh basil every day to add color, complexity, and unmistakable freshness to my […] More
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How and When to Harvest Basil for Maximum Flavor (Tips from an Experienced Gardener)
How to Harvest Basil (and Keep It Growing Strong) After growing basil in my garden for more than 30 seasons, I’ve learned that how and when you harvest makes all the difference in flavor, plant health, and yield. Harvesting basil isn’t just about snipping leaves—it’s about encouraging the plant to keep producing while maximizing the […] More
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Common Basil Pests and Diseases—and How I Keep Them Out of the Garden
As someone who grows basil year-round in raised beds and containers, I’ve seen just about every pest and disease that can affect this beloved herb. While basil is generally easy to grow, it’s not immune to trouble—especially in warm, humid weather or if planted too densely. Below are the most common problems I’ve encountered and […] More
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How to Grow Basil in Pots Indoors and Out: A Gardener’s Guide
After growing basil in everything from raised beds to patio pots to windowsills, I can say with confidence: basil thrives in containers when given the right care. Whether you want to grow a pot of sweet basil on your balcony, a dwarf variety on your kitchen counter, or start winter herbs from cuttings, container growing […] More
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Planting Basil for a Flavorful Harvest: When, Where, and How to Get It Right
The key to vibrant, flavorful basil starts with planting it right. From choosing the best location to understanding soil needs and timing, here’s how to give your basil the healthiest start. Here’s what I’ve learned after 30 years of growing basil . 🌞 Where to Plant Basil Basil thrives in full sun—aim for 6 to […] More
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in Herbs
How to Prune Basil for Maximum Growth and Flavor: Expert Tips
Pruning basil isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a crucial step in ensuring strong, healthy plants with maximum flavor. With over 30 years of experience growing basil in my garden, I’ve learned that a little timely pruning goes a long way in boosting both yield and taste. Here’s everything you need to know about pruning basil, when […] More
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in Gardening Tips, Herbs
How to Water, Feed, and Care for Basil: A Gardener’s Year-Round Guide
After more than 30 years of growing basil in everything from raised beds to windowsill pots, I’ve learned that basil thrives with just a few key care habits: consistent watering, light feeding, and regular pruning. Here’s how to keep your basil plants lush, leafy, and productive all season long—whether in the garden or in containers. […] More
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in Herbs
How to Grow an Indoor Herb Garden
Growing an indoor herb garden is an excellent way to have fresh herbs readily available all year round. Whether you have a sunny windowsill or a small indoor space with artificial light, you can cultivate various herbs indoors by following the right techniques and choosing suitable herbs. Here’s how to start an indoor herb garden, […] More
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How to Grow Angelica – Wild Parsnip
Angelica is a herbaceous biennial-perennial plant that is relatively easy to grow. It is a beautiful and versatile herb that can be grown in your garden or in containers. Angelica is a tropical-looking plant native to northern Europe and western Asia. It has divided and toothed bright green leaves that grow two to three feet […] More
Stephen Albert
