Overview
Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is commonly known as White Basil due to its pale green or white leaves. White Basil is widely cultivated and used in various parts of the world as a culinary herb due to its unique flavor and aroma.
Origin
White Basil is native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia. It is believed to have been first cultivated in India over 5000 years ago as a medicinal herb before it became a popular cooking ingredient. Today, it is found in many parts of the world and is widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal properties.
Common Names
White Basil is known by various names in different parts of the world. In India, it is commonly called 'Tulsi' and is considered a sacred plant in Hindu religion. In other parts of the world, it is known as Sweet Basil, Common Basil, and Genovese Basil.
Uses
White Basil has various uses. It is used in cooking to add flavor to dishes such as pasta, sauces, and soups. It is also used to make pesto, a traditional Italian sauce. White Basil is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as digestive problems, respiratory issues, and skin conditions. Additionally, it is used in aromatherapy and as a natural insect repellent.
General Appearance
White Basil is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has pale green or white leaves that are ovate and slightly toothed. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. White Basil has a pleasant aroma that is similar to that of clove and anise and a sweet, slightly peppery flavor.
Light requirements
Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth., commonly known as white basil or sweet basil, requires a significant amount of sunlight to grow adequately. It is a warm-season crop that thrives in areas receiving full sun exposure (up to 6-8 hours of light daily). In case the plant receives less than optimal light conditions, it may reach for light, causing it to become tall and leggy.
Temperature requirements
The optimum temperature for growth and development of Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. is between 18 to 26°C, with 22°C being ideal. The plant does not tolerate cold weather and is sensitive to frost. It is also important to note that basil prefers warm temperatures during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Moreover, the plant requires a minimum temperature of 15°C to germinate properly, making it unsuitable for cold regions.
Soil requirements
The white basil prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. It can grow in sandy soils, but in such cases, it needs some amendments to increase organic matter. The soil must be rich in essential nutrients, especially nitrogen, which is crucial for leaf development. Organic fertilizer is highly recommended for this herb. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Therefore, soil with excellent drainage is necessary to achieve healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
The plant Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. is commonly known as white basil, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It requires a warm and humid climate with plenty of sunlight, requiring a temperature range of 18-30°C to grow correctly. The best cultivation method involves sowing the seeds in a well-drained, fertile, and loamy soil mixture. White basil requires sufficient spacing to promote proper aeration, and spacing should be about 15-20 cm apart.
Watering Needs
White basil requires consistent moisture in the soil. The soil should remain moist but not wet, as overwatering may result in root rot. When the topsoil feels dry, provide enough water to keep the soil continuously moist. In areas with hot and dry climates, it may be necessary to water the plants using drip irrigation.
Fertilization
To promote growth and productivity, it is essential to fertilize white basil. Organic fertilizers are recommended since the leaves are typically consumed or used for medicinal purposes. It is recommended to fertilize using compost, manure, or organic liquid fertilizers. Fertilization should be done every three weeks to supply sufficient nutrients for healthy and robust plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in ensuring a full and robust white basil plant. Pinching the tips of young plants about one month into growth will promote branching and create denser plants. When the plant reaches a height of 15-20 cm, cut off the main stalk at the top and continue to pinch off growing tips. Additionally, removing any yellowed or damaged leaves and flowers will help prevent disease and pests from spreading, and also promote healthy growth.
Propagation Methods for Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth.
Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth., commonly known as white basil or sweet basil, is a popular culinary herb used across the globe. To grow this plant, you need to know the proper propagation methods. There are several ways to propagate sweet basil; some of the commonly used ones are:
Seed Propagation:
Seed propagation is the most popular and easiest way to propagate sweet basil. It is easy and affordable, and can be done indoors or outdoors. The best time to sow basil seeds is in early spring, either indoors or in a greenhouse. The seeds should be sown approximately a quarter to half an inch deep in the soil, with a spacing of 4-6 inches between each seed. The soil should be kept warm, moist, and in bright light for successful germination. Once the seedlings develop 2-3 sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors or into individual containers.
Stem Cuttings:
Another common method used for propagation is stem cuttings. Basil plant stem cuttings can be taken at any time during the growing season. The cutting should be approximately 4-6 inches in length and should be taken from the parent plant's base or a healthy branch. The cutting should be allowed to dry for a few hours before planting it in a pot filled with a mixture of perlite and peat moss. The pot should be placed in a well-lit area and kept moist until roots develop; this usually takes about 2-3 weeks. After root development has taken place, the basil plant can be transferred into suitable soil or grow bags.
Division:
Division is another commonly used propagation method for basil plants. This method is used for mature plants to expand their growth. The division process involves digging up the mature plant, gently separating it into multiple sections with roots attached, and re-planting each individual section in separate holes with suitable soil. This propagation method is typically done in the early spring when the plant is still dormant.
Propagation is an important aspect of growing Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. By selecting the suitable propagation method, you can ensure a healthy and productive crop.
Disease management
The plant Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. is prone to many diseases that can affect its growth and production. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Fusarium wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes the plant's leaves to turn yellow and wilt. The disease can also affect the stems, causing them to turn brown. To manage this disease, you can use fungicides and remove infected plants to prevent the disease from spreading.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes spots on the plant's leaves and fruits. The spots can be brown or black and can cause the plant to die prematurely. To manage this disease, you can use fungicides and plant resistant varieties.
Downy mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes the plant's leaves to turn yellow and brown. The disease can also affect the plant's stems and cause it to die prematurely. To manage this disease, you can use fungicides and maintain proper plant spacing to improve air circulation.
Pest management
The plant Ocimum basilicum L. var. album Benth. is also prone to many pests that can affect its growth and production. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause the plant to wilt and die prematurely. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil and introduce natural predators.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of several species of moths. They cut the plant's stems at the base, causing it to fall over and die. To manage this pest, you can use physical barriers and introduce natural predators.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this pest, you can use miticides and maintain proper plant spacing to improve air circulation.
