One of the most popular plants in the kitchen is basil. It is an aromatic plant that can be used to enrich a myriad of recipes: from a simple pasta with tomato sauce to Genovese pesto.
But since it is a living organism, it can happen that during its life basil encounters attacks from a variety of pests. When this happens, the leaves can appear shriveled, pitted and much duller green than normal. How to do to restore basil to its fragrant splendor?
Basil leaves are a particularly welcome food for lots of animals: for example, snails.
One solution that can be taken against a large number of different pests is this one that we illustrate below. First, we need to put on gloves, which are essential for removing the larger insects, the ones we can see with the naked eye. This is not a minor detail, because many of these pests are harmful to the skin.
The smaller ones we can get them out of the way with a solution of water and essential oils (Neem’s is excellent). We can spray the leaves of the plant with it and can use it fairly liberally, since it is an all-natural solution.
What to do for brownish and dry leaves?
When only a few basil leaves appear brownish in color and very dry, we can remove them one by one to make sure that the whole plant is not attacked. Always using gloves, mind you.
General tips
In order for basil to grow fresh, green and lush, it is necessary to ensure proper drainage: the plant will definitely grow better with organic compounds in the potting soil.
Moreover, there is a need for constant sunlight, with a temperature that should range between 59 °F and 77 °F.
Finally, remember that basil does not survive during colder periods if the plant is left outdoors
