Can I grow basil indoors with other herbs?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Basil can thrive in a home indoors with plants that perform well together. I have planted prolific basil next to chives and parsley in my apartment for years. Use pots that are a minimum of 12 inches in diameter with drainage holes on the bottom. Give each plant some room at least 6 inches of space between each one, to avoid crowding and reduce leaves being stolen from each other. A south-facing window or grow light will provide the light needed for these herbs.
Pot Requirements
- 12-inch diameter per plant for root expansion
- Mix 30% perlite into potting soil for drainage
- Elevate pots on saucers to protect surfaces
Light Solutions
- 14+ hours daily under full-spectrum LEDs
- Rotate pots 180° every 3 days for even growth
- Supplement with reflective foil on north-facing windows
Managing humidity can help avoid mold problems. Basil plants flourish at 40-50% humidity levels. You can use pebble trays filled with water to group your plants. The basil-chive cluster I had near a humidifier grew leaves 30% larger than those not near it (in the same room, with the same light). Avoid misting the leaves of plants! Mist may cause powdery mildew.
When plants reach a height of 6-8 inches, harvest indoor basil. Use scissors to cut the stems above pairs of leaves, which will help the basil plant bush become denser. Each week, I simply cut 10-15 leaves per plant. This maintains their vitality and continues to provide fresh herbs for cooking each day.
Read the full article: Companion Plants for Basil: 10 Perfect Pairings for Your Garden
