Question 1

Why do I need to fertilize my Sweet basil?

Accepted Answer

All plants need nutrients to grow, but some types are able to take what they need and don’t need any supplementation with fertilizers. Sweet basil, like other plants, use nutrients to support growth and all internal processes.

Each of the main nutrients that plants use (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) contribute to one or more of a plant’s essential functions, and in the case of foliage it is nitrogen that provides the most support. It can be difficult for a Sweet basil to get enough nitrogen from the soil, which is why many gardeners prefer to supplement by feeding Sweet basil with a source of nitrogen.

Question 2

When is the best time to fertilize my Sweet basil?

Accepted Answer

Sweet basil generally grows well, but a fertilizer can be applied about once a month to give the plant a boost when it is actively growing. You should fertilize Sweet basil about once a month only during the spring and summer months, but not during fall and winter when it becomes less active and does not use as many nutrients.

You’ll know when to start fertilizing Sweet basil if you see signs of new growth. The fertilization schedule remains the same whether the plant is grown outside or indoors in a container. However, if your Sweet basil is in a container, you probably will not need to fertilize for the first one to two months. Potting soil made for container plants already contains plenty of nutrients, so you should only start to fertilize after your plant has been in the same soil for a while.

Question 3

When should I avoid fertilizing my Sweet basil?

Accepted Answer

Never fertilize your Sweet basil if it is not healthy, for example if it has developed a disease or has insect pests on it. Also do not fertilize a dehydrated plant, since the fertilizer will make this problem even worse. Only fertilize healthy plants.

Do not splash fertilizer onto the leaves or stem of this plant when watering, since it can cause burned spots. Be careful not to allow the fertilizer to make direct contact with the plant, unless you are usually a special fertilizer designed to be applied to the foliage.

Question 4

What type of fertilizer does my Sweet basil need?

Accepted Answer

Fertilizers contain high levels of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, along with other essential nutrients such as iron, manganese and zinc. These are all necessary elements that promote growth in Sweet basil.

A balanced fertilizer works well for Sweet basil, for example an all-purpose fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK number. For natural fertilizers, blood meal or worm castings work well. You may also choose a fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen than other nutrients, such as fish fertilizer. Nitrogen provides support to leaves, which are the main feature that people want from Sweet basil. There is no point in providing a lot of supplements for flowers or seeds if that is not your purpose in growing the plant.

Question 5

How do I fertilize my Sweet basil?

Accepted Answer

Apply fertilizer based on the instructions on the particular type you have purchased. It is generally a good idea to start with half-strength fertilizer to avoid accidentally over-fertilizing your Sweet basil. Since this plant requires frequent fertilization, it is common to accidentally fertilize too much. Remember that it’s always easier to add more fertilizer than it is to try to save an over-fertilized plant.

Don’t apply fertilizer to dry soil - it should already be at least somewhat moist before fertilizing. This helps the fertilizer absorb more easily and helps avoid fertilizer burn. You should also water after applying dry fertilizers to your soil.

Some fertilizers are meant to be mixed into the soil when planting, while others are applied on top of the soil and then watered in. For most types of Sweet basil, a water soluble fertilizer is an easy choice. Simply mix the fertilizer solution into your watering can at the recommended dosage for Sweet basil and then water the plant as usual. Slow-release granules or fertilizer spikes can also work well if you prefer not to remember to fertilize monthly.

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What happens if I fertilize my Sweet basil too much?

More Questions About Sweet basil

Why do I need to fertilize my Sweet basil?

When is the best time to fertilize my Sweet basil?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Sweet basil?

What type of fertilizer does my Sweet basil need?

How do I fertilize my Sweet basil?