There are few herbs as fragrant as fresh basil. The fast-growing annual herb is a part of the mint family and is popular for its culinary and medicinal uses. Basil thrives in warm weather and moist conditions. It starts to decline when temperatures drop below 50 degrees and it’s completely dead by the first frost of the year. So, typically, the basil season lasts as long as the summer. However, you can extend basil season by creating a mini-greenhouse from a plastic bin.
A mini-greenhouse will keep heat and dense moist air around the basil so it continues to grow as temperatures drop. It will also shield the plant’s delicate leaves from cold rain or gusts of frigid air. Constructing the greenhouse is a low-cost DIY project that will keep this tasty herb in season even when it’s not. You’ll need a clear plastic bin and a drill or something else to make ventilation holes. This genius hack will work whether you have potted or ground-grown basil.
The easy way to grow more basil
@mindandsoil
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To extend the growing season of your basil, you need to create the greenhouse effect on a much smaller scale. First, find a translucent bin large enough to cover your basil. The clear plastic will allow light to permeate through and then trap the heat it produces. Basil needs humidity, and a mini-greenhouse is an effective microclimate.
Turn the bin upside down so the closed end faces upward. Measure an inch from the top and an inch from the side. Then, drill your first ventilation hole. Where you drill the next holes will depend on the bin size. In the above example, TikTok user @mindandsoil drilled a hole roughly every six inches. Drill two rows on all four sides, then place the bin over your basil plant. Potted basil plants can be set atop the lid for easy transport. Otherwise, set the bin directly on the moist soil. Using this method will lengthen the basil season. You will still need to monitor and water the plant as you did before. Pinching off any flowers will also promote more growth from your plants.
