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Bought a basil plant - now what?
I have a total black thumb when it comes to growing things but for some reason, I was drawn to buying a basil plant at the supermarket last night. I bought the best-looking one but it's definitely a little worse for the wear. There are some dead leaves on the plant. I have done some googling and have put the plant (in its original plant holder) in a dish and have watered it and placed it on a sunny windowsill. But now what? The stuff I see online seems mostly directed at people who grow basil from seeds in their gardens, outdoors. I am an apartment dweller in the city.
What can I do to ensure that this plant survives? And what should I do with the shriveled basil leaves?
Can I start chopping off the good leaves to use in my cooking or should I wait until the whole plant looks better?
Thanks!
Re: Bought a basil plant - now what?
I agree that basil loves sun. If you don't have a sunny window, set it up with a lamp and a grow light. Make sure it is well watered too. Don't let it get soggy, but keep it moist. I've killed potted basil from lack of water before.
Personally, I vote for taking a few leaves for cooking right away. My basil seemed to grow better when I pinched off the new growth more frequently. It's like when you pinch of the top of it, two more sprouts will come up in it's place. The more you pick, the bushier it will be.