Basil is a popular herb that can add flavor to many dishes. If you’re planning to grow basil, it’s helpful to know how big these plants can get so you can provide the right amount of space. Here’s what you need to know about basil plant sizes.
Typical Basil Sizes
The size of a basil plant depends on the variety. Basil typically grows 12-24 inches tall and wide, but this can vary. Different types of basil have unique mature dimensions.
- Large-leaved basils: Sweet basil, Italian basil, and lettuce-leaf basil can reach 2 to 3 feet in height.
- Small-leaved basils: Lemon basil, dwarf basil, bush basil, or spicy globe basil usually grow 8 to 12 inches in height and width.
- Giant basil: Can grow 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
- Holy Basil: Typically grows to be 12 to 24 inches tall and can spread up to 24 inches.
Factors Influencing Basil Size
Several factors affect how big a basil plant will grow.
- Variety: Different types of basil, such as Genovese or Thai basil, have different mature sizes. Dwarf varieties typically reach 12-18 inches in height.
- Sunlight: Basil needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Insufficient light can cause leggy growth and smaller plants.
- Soil Quality: Nutrient-rich, well-draining soil promotes larger growth. Poor soil can stunt the plant’s growth.
- Watering: Consistent moisture is important. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stunt growth.
- Temperature: Basil thrives in warm climates, ideally between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can hinder growth.
- Container Size: Using smaller pots can restrict root growth, limiting the plant’s overall size.
How to Control Basil Size
If you want to manage the size of your basil plant, here are some strategies to consider:
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the desired size and encourages bushier growth. Prune every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. Pinch off the top leaves to promote lateral growth and keep the plant compact.
- Container Size: Use containers that are between 1 to 3 gallons to control the size of the plant. Smaller pots can restrict root growth, which limits overall size.
- Choose Dwarf Varieties: Select dwarf basil varieties if you have limited space. These typically grow to about 12 to 18 inches in height.
The Exceptionally Large Basil Plant
Under the right conditions, basil plants can grow surprisingly large. One basil-growing expert grew a basil plant to be 6ft 5 inches tall by focusing on healthy soil, an extensive root system, consistent access to water, direct sunlight, high heat, and correct pruning methods.
Conclusion
Understanding how big a basil plant can grow, and what factors influence its size, will help you grow healthy and productive plants. Whether you’re growing basil in a small pot or a large garden, providing the right conditions will help you enjoy this flavorful herb.