The best herbs for a vertical farm - #1 Basil
Basil is one of the most popular herbs in Germany. In addition to its wonderful aroma, this is certainly also due to the fact that it is easy to grow under the right conditions.
Basil is a spice herb and belongs to the labiates family. Labiates have particularly frequent aromatic family members, because in addition to basil, for example, sage and lavender can also be found among the siblings.
But why the basil? Basil is easy to care for and perfect for getting started in hydroponics!
Often located in Italian cuisine, basil is actually found in many cuisines around the world. Of course, these are different species, researchers* believe that there are now over 70 species of basil. Although not all of them have been planted hydroponically, the most popular varieties are all suitable for hydroponic cultivation.
With these tips and tricks, you too will surely succeed in growing your own hydroponic basil.
Get started with your first Batch of Basil using this seed tray*
Hydroponics basil from seed or cuttings?
Hydroponic basil can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Growing from seed is simple. Spread the basil seeds on a moist hydroponic substrate. Light the seeds. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18 and 23 degrees. Germination takes 4 to 10 days. After rooting, transfer the basil and substrate to your hydroponic system.
In our opinion, with coconut fiber you have one of the best substrates. It is environmentally friendly, has good water conductivity and is inexpensive. It is also great for germination.
Here you can find coconut fiber tabs for growing.*
Growing from cuttings is a great way to propagate your hydroponic basil. Simply cut the cuttings and stick them in water or a growing medium. After a few days, the basil will root and can be transplanted into a hydroponic system.
Here is a list of different basil species that have proven successful in hydroponic growing.
- Genoveser
- Aroma 2
- Nufar
- Thai Basil
- Cinnamon Basil
- Lemon Basil
- Greek Basil
- Indian Basil
- Elindra
- Dwarf basil
- Genovese Compact Improved
- Red Rubin
- Dark Opal
- Moulin Rouge
- Purple Delight
The right air and water temperature
In hydroponics, in addition to the air temperature, the water temperature is also crucial. For both, there is an optimum in which the hydroponic basil grows best.
The ideal air temperature for basil is between 21 and 26 degrees during the day. For healthy growth, the temperature should not drop below 13 degrees and should not rise above 35 degrees. At night, the temperature should drop 5 to 10 degrees. For hydroponic basil, a water temperature between 21- and 24 degrees is optimal. The temperature of the nutrient solution should not fall below 15 degrees and not rise above 25 degrees.
How much light and what lighting?
Without light, no plant will grow, and certainly not basil. Therefore, as an indoor or outdoor gardener, you need to consider the following:
Outdoors, basil loves direct sunlight. Therefore, make sure that your hydroponic basil is positioned in sunlight.
Indoors, a plant lamp is sufficient for vegetative plant growth. However, if you want a more intense flavor, you should choose a full spectrum plant lamp. The downside, however, is that after some time, your hydroponic basil will begin to flower and acquire a bitter taste.
Light your hydroponic basil for 14 to 16 hours a day - for maximum yield. Also, keep a dark period of 8 hours.
