Tulsi (Holy basil) plant -Indoor herb garden

Tulsi (Holy basil) plant is a sacred plant in Hindu belief.It is cultivated in Southern Asia, in places like Thailand, India and other Hindu influenced countries. The tulsi plant was discovered over 5000 years ago. Tulsi plant worshipped in mornings and evenings by the people. Because of the significant benefits of tulsi, it is now widely known not only in India but also in the Western World. Several studies and various amounts of research have been done to find out the therapeutic effects of this super herb.

The health benefits of Tulsi (Holy basil) plants are due to the active ingredient, Eugenol present in the leaves. It also contains ursolic acid and carvacrol, both of which have anti-microbial properties.

Scientific Name: Ocimum tenuiflorum.

Common Name: Tulsi, Holy basil, Ocimum sanctum.

Requirements for growing tulsi plant:

Soil: Tulsi grows well in loamy and fertile soil with good drainage, pH level around 6 to 7.5 is optimal.

Light: Holy basil thrives in full sun but grows in partial shade too, at least four hours of sunlight a day is required.

Watering: Water the plant when top one inch of soil is dry. Do not water during rain. Reduce watering by the winter to prevent diseases.

How to care tulsi plant: It is important to pinch tops of Tulasi plant when they are forming four or six pairs of leaves, this will make the plant grow bushier. Even the flower buds need to be removed when they appear. It grows more lush and full when seed production is prevented.

It is also important to remove the faded, wilted or discolored leaves to encourage the growth of new foliage. Regular removal of old leaves and flower buds keep the plant healthy.

Fertilizer: Apply balanced liquid fertilizer once in every couple of weeks. Replacing top two inch layer of soil with compost every year or in six months is also beneficial.

Pruning: Prune Tulsi as needed throughout the year to control its size and promote bushier and more compact growth. Remove no more than half of the growth of stem while pruning.

Overwintering: Move Tulsi plant indoors in the winter if you live below USDA zone 10, place the plant near a bright sunny window, where the temperature is kept above 50 F (10 C). Move the plant again outside after all the dangers of frost are passed.

Pests and Diseases: Tulsi (Holy basil) plant is generally pests and diseases free. However, when grown in poor conditions it might be attacked by some common pests like mealy bugs, aphids, spider mites and sometimes whiteflies. For treating pests use organic pesticide or insecticidal soap.