Question From: Corte Madera, CA, USA
Q: What fertilizer do you recommend for my potted basil? Any suggestions on how to grow basil?
A: There are a couple I'd recommend: MAXSEA Seaweed Brand Plant food (16-16-16); and Neptune's Harvest Fish and Seaweed Fertilizer. Both are available on Amazon. Don't overdo the fertilizer, too much nitrogen lessens the flavor.
I start my seeds in a seed starting potting mix and then pot them up in a good quality potting mix, such as Happy Frog or Black Gold - pot growers love this stuff - you can get it at a good garden center or hydroponic shop. I do not recommend Miracle Grow organic mix.
If you grow in ground add a good quality compost and worm castings. The biggest problem folks have growing basil is over-watering. Fusarium wilt can also be an issue. It's soil borne, so if you have had trouble with it before do not plant in the same spot. Treating the soil with Actinovate and spraying the plants will also help.
Best and Happy Yardening, Nancy.
I start my seeds in a seed starting potting mix and then pot them up in a good quality potting mix, such as Happy Frog or Black Gold - pot growers love this stuff - you can get it at a good garden center or hydroponic shop. I do not recommend Miracle Grow organic mix.
If you grow in ground add a good quality compost and worm castings. The biggest problem folks have growing basil is over-watering. Fusarium wilt can also be an issue. It's soil borne, so if you have had trouble with it before do not plant in the same spot. Treating the soil with Actinovate and spraying the plants will also help.
Best and Happy Yardening, Nancy.
