How To Grow Hydroponic Basil

Germination

Requires 3 to 10 days to germinate

Rockwool or Cocopeat or Rooter plugs are best suited for germination

23°C (73 °F) is the best temperature

Transplant Procedure

Switch to your hydroponic system after a 3-4 leaf growth

NFT and RAFT Systems is best choice

Post transplantation, it takes 3-5 weeks to stabilize and mature

Conditions

Basil likes warm conditions

Basil leaves catches more water and hold it

Controlling condensation is crucial. Keep your humidity between 40–60%

Basil transpires heavily in the dark so good airflow to maintain recommended humidity levels

Pruning

Pruning correctly is important for herbs, especially in basil

Do not pinch, use sharp sheers to avoid damaging the foliage

Well pruned plants look better, yields more, and easier for shipping

Encourage lateral root for more yield

Cut multiple pairs of lateral buds in a way that it won’t stop air flow and light

Foliage Care

Pull off any affected leaves because they may cause fungus growth

Keep surrounding clean and eliminate all of your bitter basil by harvesting before bolting

Planting Space

8-12 inches space between plants is recommended

Lighting Duration

For Indoor setup, 10-15hrs Led light is good

Nutrient Required

Nutrients requirement is the same as lettuce check out our “How to Grow Hydroponic Lettuce” blog

In general, herbs like more Ca and Mg

K and Ca ratio has a direct relation with the oil and flavor of the basil

For the best taste and aroma, you may add Mg 50 ppm to your nutrient

Maintain Ph 5.5-6.2. For aquaponics system choose a little higher value

Harvest

After 40-50 days and seeing its growth, you can start harvesting

Disease Care

You can enhance disease resistance by providing proper nutrients and by keeping the area clean and sterilized

All basil are prone to attack by aphids, whiteflies, and sometimes thrips

Fungal diseases like Fusarium wilt and Dampening off is also common

Post Harvesting Care

If you pack basil in plastic with little or no air exchange, be sure to keep storage temperatures stable to avoid condensation

Vented bags work best for basil. Also you can keep it in a jar of water

Keep it around 12–18ºC. This temperature helps you attain a shelf life of 12 days

Basil requires some special post-harvesting care

Also Read: How To Grow Hydroponic Lettuce