I've recently decided to take up gardening and got some basil seeds since they're often recommended for indoor growth. I planted my seeds in small planters with potting soil and placed them on a north-facing windowsill, as I read that was a good spot. I know I need to keep them watered when the soil dries out, but I've been flooded with conflicting advice. Some say indoor herbs won't thrive due to light issues, others suggest bringing them outside once they sprout, and some even mention the importance of pH levels! With my apartment's fluctuating temperatures (it's freezing one day and mild the next), I'm worried I might have made a mistake. Did I mess up with my basil planting? Is there still hope for these little guys in my windowsill? And was basil a good choice for a beginner like me?
3 Answers
You might want to switch your basil to a south-facing window instead, or even better, consider using grow lights. Those can make a huge difference, especially in winter. I got grow lights last year and they worked wonders for my seedlings. Plus, using a seedling heat mat can also help get better results, as basil seeds especially thrive in warmer conditions. Don't stress too much though—basil is a great starter plant and usually sprouts quickly, so there’s a good chance your seeds will be just fine. And remember, experimenting is part of the journey!
No worries, it's easy to mix that up! You can put the whole cup inside the takeout container—just make sure there’s some ventilation.
If there's a chance of a really cold night, just move your plants away from that window. Old windows can let in a lot of cold air and might damage your basil seedlings.
If the weather’s still chilly, I’d wait until spring to try again. However, if you’re eager to grow something now, consider microgreens! They're super quick to grow and you can harvest them right after they sprout. Great for smoothies and nutritious meals!
I didn’t know much about microgreens until now! Sounds like a perfect way to experiment while waiting for the weather to warm up.
Definitely! I recommend kale or broccoli microgreens; they’re super tasty and easy to grow!
Thanks for the tips! I must've mixed up my window directions; I’ve actually been placing them by a south-facing window all along. I'll definitely check out those grow lights. For creating a greenhouse effect—do you suggest just placing the seedling with its cup inside a takeout container, or should I remove it from the cup? Just want to make sure I do this right!