Growing basil from cuttings is a simple and effective way to propagate this popular herb and have an endless supply of fresh basil plants. By taking cuttings from existing basil plants, you can grow multiple new plants without having to start from seeds.
Getting Started with Basil from Cuttings
There are a few initial factors to consider when wanting to grow basil from cuttings. First, think about which variety of basil you want to propagate. Genovese basil and sweet basil are the most commonly grown from cuttings due to their aromatic leaves.
Choosing the Right Variety
Genovese basil and sweet basil are ideal varieties for growing from cuttings, as they root readily from stem cuttings. They also produce lots of foliage that can be harvested all season.
Other good options include lime basil, purple ruffles basil, and cinnamon basil. Spicy basils like licorice and Thai tend to be more difficult to root from cuttings.
Selecting Healthy Stems
It’s best to take cuttings from basil plants that are vigorously growing and free from signs of disease or insects.
Choose stems that are 4-6 inches long with 2-3 sets of leaves. The cuttings should be taken from new growth, so avoid woody stems near the base of the plant.
Timing for Taking cuts
Early to mid-summer is generally the best time to take cuttings when conditions are warm and the parent plants are actively growing.
Cuttings taken in spring may be more susceptible to damping off. Late-summer cuttings may have difficulty rooting before temperatures cool.
Taking Basil Cuttings
To take cuttings, gather your supplies which include pruners, rooting hormone, and a container for rooting.
Tools Needed
- Clean, sharp pruners or scissors for harvesting stems
- Rooting hormone powder or liquid (optional but helps)
- Containers for rooting, such as trays, jiffy pots, or water
Taking the Cuttings
- Use pruners to cut 4-6-inch stems just below a node (where leaves meet the stem)
- Make a clean 45-degree cut through the node
- Remove lower sets of leaves, leaving the top 2-3 sets of leaves
- If using rooting hormone, dip base of cutting in powder or solution
Packing Cuttings
- Space cuttings 1/2 to 1 inch apart in rooting tray or container
- Ensure medium is kept moist but not soaked
- Place in warm area with indirect sunlight
The cuttings should now be well on their way to sprouting roots. Keeping a close eye on humidity and moisture levels will help ensure cutting roots successfully.
Rooting Basil Cuttings
With the right conditions, basil cuttings will grow roots within 10–14 days. Proper moisture and humidity levels are critical during the rooting phase.
Creating Ideal Rooting Conditions
- Provide bottom heat if possible, such as placing the cuttings on a heating mat set to 70–80°F
- Maintain soil moisture by misting cuttings daily and ensuring soil does not completely dry out
- Place cuttings in a warm spot with indirect sunlight, around 75–80°F
- Use a plastic bag or dome to keep humidity high around cuttings
Choosing a Rooting Medium
- Soilless mixes like perlite or vermiculite retain moisture well for rooting
- Water rooting works too, by placing stems in bottles or jars of water with hormone
- Peat pellets or seed starting mix in trays also provide a sterile, well-draining rooting medium
Signs of Successful Rooting
- Roots will usually be visible growing from the stem within 10–14 days
- New shoot growth and leaves will form above the rooted cuttings
- Stems may feel more firm if squeezed instead of soft
Troubleshooting root rot or stem rot is important. Isolate and remove any cuttings showing signs of disease.
Potting Rooted Basil Cuttings
Once basil cuttings have developed roots, it’s time to pot them up in their permanent containers. This helps the transition to vegetative growth.
Choosing a Container
For single plants, use 4-6-inch pots. Larger containers can hold clusters. Terra cotta is ideal for drainage and air circulation to roots.
Potting Mix
Use a rich, well-draining potting mix to encourage growth. Promix, seed-starting mix or homemade mixes work well.
Planting Procedure
- Gently remove cutting from rooting tray, taking as much root system as possible
- Make a hole in potting mix slightly deeper than root ball depth
- Firm mix around roots, smoothing surface level with pot rim
- Water thoroughly and place in sunny spot
It may take 1-2 weeks for transplanted cuttings to recover and resume growth. Keep soil continually moist until then. Support weak-stemmed plants with stakes.
Ongoing Care
Maintain consistent moisture and fertilize monthly. Pinch back new stem growth to promote bushiness. Move plants outdoors once nighttime lows stay above 50°F. Cut foliage regularly for harvesting fresh basil all season.
You may like to read the next article on growing herbs indoor all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for basil cuttings to root?
Most basil cuttings will form roots within 10–14 days under ideal growing conditions. Some varieties may take slightly longer—around 3 weeks.
Can basil cuttings be started indoors?
Yes, starting basil from cuttings indoors allows for an earlier harvest. Ensure cuttings receive bright, indirect light and maintain warm 70–80°F temperatures for best rooting results.
What should I do if cuttings get root rot?
If stems start to soften or turn brown, promptly remove any cuttings showing signs of root rot disease. Improve air circulation and allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent recurrence.
When can rooted basil cuttings be transplanted outside?
Basil cuttings can be hardened off and moved outside once nighttime lows remain above 50°F. A few weeks inside will help develop a strong root system first.
How do I overwinter basil cuttings indoors?
Take cuttings in late summer and root under grow lights or sunny window. Pot in larger containers and place in a warm, sunny area for winter production, using grow lights if needed.
Conclusion
Growing basil from cuttings is a rewarding way to experience the aromatics and flavors of this popular herb throughout the growing season.
By taking stem cuttings from existing plants, you can propagate several new basil plants without using seeds.
With nothing more than fresh basil stems, a rooting container, and some tender care, it’s easy to grow basil from cuttings.
Just be sure to select stems from healthy parent plants, take cuttings at the right time, and provide suitable rooting conditions. Within a couple weeks, rooted cuttings can be potted up and cared for just like any other basil plant.
Use these homegrown basil plants to harvest fresh leaves all season. Clip off stems above leaf nodes to encourage bushy new growth.
Continue nurturing the plants with moisture, nutrients and sunny locations. You’ll be gifted with bountiful basil that can be used to make pesto, sprinkle on pizza, or add to pasta dishes.
By rooting basil cuttings, gardeners have the ability to extend their harvest and fully take advantage of this versatile herb.
With a little patience, cuttings provide a simple way to propagate new basil plants without seeds and enjoy homegrown basil for all your cooking needs.