Basil kept dying until I watered it way less

My basil plants were always droopy even with daily water. I looked it up and found out they hate wet feet, so I started waiting until the soil felt dry. Anyone else mess up their herbs like this lol?

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3 Comments

jessica5407mo ago

Killed three basil plants before I figured out they're basically camels. I used to drown them in love, meaning water, every day. Turns out, they thrive on neglect. Their roots need to breathe, and soggy soil suffocates them. Now I only water when the soil is dry to the touch, and they're flourishing. It's a hard lesson for any overeager gardener.

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noahc147mo ago

How many plants have I drowned trying to be nice?

5

henrybutler7mo ago

Hold up, @jessica540, I've got to push back on this. Basil isn't a camel; it's a thirsty herb that loves moisture. In my experience, letting the soil go bone dry makes the leaves wilt and turn bitter. For example, last summer I missed a watering day, and my basil looked sad and tasted harsh. Consistent light watering keeps it sweet and perky. Don't you think a little love, meaning water, actually helps it thrive?

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