Green Housewarming Gift: Basil

We received a fantastic green housewarming gift when we moved into our apartment last month--and it wasn't sage. Unlike that other herb given to you when you move in to a new place, the only thing that's smoked about this present is the accompanying fresh mozzarella.

Sage is a nice gesture, but we're crazy about our basil plant for a couple of reasons. For the last month, we've been eating delicious tomato and cheese sandwiches, omelets, and pasta. We also love that this is a gift that's lasted longer than flowers, and that it has a dual purpose, (so it's not just taking up space in our small place). Plus, the fact that it helps with dinner is terrific for someone who's just moving in and hasn't yet scoped out the nearby grocery stores.

However, I do have a few proper care questions. I'm told to keep the plant low and to not let it flower, but some of the lower leaves are getting a little yellow. We know basil likes warm temperatures and is an annual, so does this mean now that it's fall, it's done? Please tell me it's not so...Does anyone else keep a basil plant growing indoors throughout a chilly winter? How do you do it?

Oh, and for ideas about planters, check out Amber's recent post!

photo: jen derose

Comments (1)

We have the exact same problem. My mum told me once winter comes I must say goodbye to my basil plant, but I'm refusing to do so. Denial? Perhaps.
I've heard that you should keep the little dry flowers and them once you take the dead plant off, at the end of winter, plant them.
I think I'll post about it soon in my blog... now that it's just starting, an indoors garden feature would be cool.

http://www.wetakeiteasy.com

posted by xieta on September 23rd 2008 at 12:04pm
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