Why do supermarket basil plants always dry out when we bring them home?
Basil is one of the most used aromatic plants in the kitchen. A fundamental ingredient of our culinary tradition, it gives a touch of flavor and aroma to many different dishes. It can happen that you buy a basil plant at the supermarket , and that it starts to dry out once you get it home .
The seedlings we buy at the supermarket are “designed” to last a short time, so that we have to buy another one after a short time. But recovering the basil bought at the supermarket and making it last a long time is not impossible, and we will explain how to do it below.
Basil is not a seedling that requires special care: it is very resistant and adapts well to many different climatic conditions, as long as they are not extreme and it is not subjected to too abrupt changes.
Environmental and thermal shock
It is probable that the basil plant from the supermarket has spent many days in artificial light and at a controlled temperature, to then switch to natural light as soon as we bring it home.
Take this into account when choosing where to put the seedling. Our advice is to keep it indoors for a few days , perhaps close to a window, to allow the plant to adapt to natural light without experiencing a “shock” that could damage it permanently.
Incorrect watering
The basil seedling loves humidity , and must remain constantly hydrated. It is possible that the seedlings displayed in the supermarket have received less water than they should.
As soon as you get it home , water it frequently , but avoid putting too much water all at once. If the soil is too dry it is good to rehydrate it a little at a time.
Choosing the right potting soil
If you decide to transplant supermarket basil it is important to choose a soil that is fertile enough. Don’t compact it too much and don’t weigh it down.
To fertilize basil, choose a product that is liquid and rich in nitrogen.
More tips to increase the survival of supermarket basil
Eliminate the white inflorescences that appear during the hot months. By removing the flowers, the plant will have more energy to survive.
Do not expose the basil seedling to direct sunlight to prevent the latter from burning the leaves.
Moisten the basil leaves when it’s too hot . This simple trick helps basil stay cooler and handle heat better.
Important: This website does not give medical advice, nor does it suggest the use of techniques as a form of treatment for physical problems, for which medical advice is required. In case you decide to apply the information contained in this site, the same does not assume responsibility. The intention of the site is to be illustrative, not exhortative or didactic.