We shine

Seedlings now need a lot of light in addition to water. They can convert the energy of sunlight into their own energy. Yes, the whole process, which no one wanted to be quizzed on in school, is called photosynthesis. To help the seedlings catch as many rays as possible, place them preferably by a west or east window. And the ideal solution is to place a white board or aluminum foil opposite the window so that the outdoor light is reflected and the plants are illuminated from all sides, not just from the window. High-tech gardeners also use LEDs. Basil requires at least 5 hours of sunlight a day.

We are transplanting

In gardening terms, transplanting means replanting. About 14 days after the first seedlings have sprouted, carefully separate them from each other (gently pull them by the leaves and be careful with the roots, which may be intertwined) and transplant them one by one into larger pots or containers, where each will have more space. Note that there should be a hole at the bottom of the containers to allow excess water to drain. Therefore, trays under the containers will also be useful.

Transplanting for the last time

You can repeat pricking out once more when the herbs are about 10 cm tall. They should then thrive a little better. This step is not absolutely necessary; it depends on how large the containers were when you first transplanted the seedlings. And if you plan to plant the herbs in the garden or on the balcony, don't do it before the “ice saints” in mid-May. As the name suggests, your herbs could freeze, and that would be their end.

Harvesting

We can pick and pinch off the leaves and tops of the shoots throughout the entire growth period, which will make the basil bushier. It has the strongest aroma just before flowering, and when you see the first white flowers, it's good to pick all the leaves. This will be sometime in June. But that's not the end; cut the basil back, and in September you'll have a second harvest.