Can I Grow Basil and Parsley Together?


Can I Grow Basil and Parsley Together?

I love herbs and wanted to know whether growing several of them together is okay. Basil and parsley are my number one choice, but can I grow them together? After several trials and errors, I confirmed what to do. Read on to find out.

Therefore, can I grow basil and parsley together? Sure you can. Another excellent plant companion for basil is parsley. They both require similar amounts of water and sunlight. Basil and parsley both require constant moisture to grow well. Basil’s flavor is enhanced by parsley as well. So, if you keep them both in the same space with proper care, they will thrive together.

How do you plant basil and parsley together?

Planting basil and parsley together is a great way to add natural flavor to your garden. Basil also has great health benefits, and you may want to enjoy them together with those parsley. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by finding a sunny spot in your garden with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

2. Dig a hole big enough to fit the basil and parsley plants, ensuring they each have enough room to spread out their roots without overcrowding each other.

3. Place the plants in their respective holes, carefully packing soil around them until firmly in place.

4. Water the plants thoroughly and moisten the soil for a few weeks until the roots are established.

5. Finally, give your basil and parsley plants plenty of sunshine, and you’ll soon have a beautiful and fragrant garden! Enjoy the flavors of your homegrown herbs.

How long does basil and parsley take to grow?

Basil seeds sprout in about a week, but parsley seeds can take up to three weeks. Hardy perennial seeds like rosemary, mint, sage, oregano, and thyme typically germinate for 4 to 14 days. 

The time depends on the variety and size of the seed, environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and how well you take care of them. Continue even if it takes a little longer; certain sources, particularly older seeds, are difficult to germinate.

 With patience and proper care, you’ll have an abundance of fresh herbs in no time.

What is the best fertilizer for parsley and basil?

When it comes to choosing the best fertilizer for basil and parsley, there are many options available. Generally, a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for most herbs. Below are some of the best fertilizers for basil and parsley.

Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are an excellent option for basil and parsley as they provide plenty of nutrients and add organic matter to the soil. Manure, compost, fish emulsion, and seaweed extracts are all great options when fertilizing these herbs.

Synthetic Fertilizers

Synthetic fertilizers can be used, but they should be used sparingly and only when necessary. For these herbs, a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is usually sufficient.

Some examples of synthetic Fertilizers include:

Miracle-Gro All-Purpose Plant Food

This all-purpose fertilizer is excellent for basil and parsley, providing a balanced nutrient ratio. Mix one tablespoon of the fertilizer into 1 gallon of water and apply it to the soil every two weeks.

Osmocote Plus Outdoor & Indoor Plant Food

Osmocote Plus is a slow-release fertilizer that can be used on both indoor and outdoor plants. It provides a balanced nutrient mix and lasts up to 6 months in the soil, so it’s excellent for busy gardeners. Just use it by sprinkling it onto the ground and then watering it in.

Slow-Release Fertilizers

Slow-release fertilizers are a great option as they provide nutrients to your plants over a longer time, eliminating the need for frequent applications. The most common slow-release fertilizers for basil and parsley are those with high nitrogen content, such as urea or ammonium sulfate.

Examples include:

Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food

This fertilizer provides a slow release of nitrogen over eight weeks and is excellent for maintaining healthy basil and parsley plants throughout the growing season. Mix it with water according to the directions on the package, then apply it to your soil or lawn.

EarthPods Organic Plant Food

EarthPods are an excellent slow-release fertilizer for basil and parsley. Made from natural ingredients like kelp extract, rock dust, and worm castings, they provide a balanced nutrient blend to your herbs over eight weeks. Push the pods into the soil around your plants, then water them in.

No matter which fertilizer you choose, paying attention to the application instructions and using only as much fertilizer as recommended is essential. This will help keep your herbs healthy and ensure a plentiful harvest of fragrant basil and parsley.

What kind of soil do basil and parsley-like?

Basil and parsley both prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. For best results, make sure to use a quality potting mix. If you plant these herbs in the ground, mixing in some compost or aged manure for extra nutrients is essential. Covering the soil with mulch is also beneficial – it helps retain moisture and keep the soil temperature even. For maximum growth, water your herbs regularly and add fertilizer every few weeks.

FAQ

How do you encourage new growth in parsley?

Parsley is a hardy herb that can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. To encourage new growth in parsley, ensure the plant gets enough light and water to thrive. It’s best to water your parsley regularly but only sometimes – once or twice a week should be sufficient. 

You can also fertilize your parsley with a slow-release fertilizer to provide additional nutrients. Lastly, ensure you harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth and keep your plant healthy.

How often should I water my parsley plant?

Your parsley plant will likely need to be watered once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity in your area. In hotter climates, it might be necessary to water more often. Monitor the soil around your parsley plant – if it feels dry when you touch it, then it’s time to give your plant a drink!

Are basil and parsley good together?

Yes. Most herbs complement basil, including parsley, lemon balm, oregano, rosemary, chives, dill, mint, and coriander.

Let’s Get Planting

Now that you’ve learned a bit about caring for basil and parsley, it’s time to get planting! Make sure you’ve chosen the right location for your plants, prepare the soil according to the tips above, and then select a fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package and enjoy watching your herbs grow. 

Dorine

I love nature and fresh food from the garden. That's why I started this gardening journey and decided to share my experience with the world. So far it has been an amazing journey. I hope you will enjoy reading my gardening journal and never be the same again!

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