You can absolutely keep fresh basil with roots in water! This is actually a great way to ensure that your basil stays fresh and vibrant for a longer period of time. Plus, it’s a fun and easy way to have a constant supply of fresh basil right in your kitchen.
To keep basil with roots in water, all you need is a jar or a glass filled with clean water. Trim the stems of your basil plant, leaving about an inch or two of stem attached to the leaves. Place the stems in the water, making sure that the bottom ends are submerged. You can place multiple stems in the same jar if you have several basil plants.
It’s important to change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh and prevent any bacterial growth. Simply pour out the old water and replace it with clean water. You may also want to trim the ends of the stems every few days to promote water absorption.
One thing to keep in mind is that basil prefers warmer temperatures, so make sure to place your jar of basil in a warm spot in your kitchen. This will help the roots to continue growing and keep the basil plant healthy. You can also place the jar near a sunny window to provide some natural light, but be cautious of direct sunlight, as it can sometimes be too intense and cause the leaves to wilt.
Another option for keeping basil with roots is to plant it in a windowsill garden. This allows the basil to continue growing and provides a more stable environment for the plant. To do this, simply transfer your basil plant from the water-filled jar to a small pot filled with potting soil. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
When planting the basil, gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the pot, making sure that the roots are covered with soil. Water the plant thoroughly after planting and place it in a sunny windowsill where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Water the plant regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
If you don’t have immediate plans to use your basil and want to store it for a longer period of time, you can wrap the basil in a damp paper towel and store it in the vegetable drawer in your refrigerator. This will help to keep the basil fresh and prevent wilting. Just make sure to check on it regularly and replace the damp paper towel if it dries out.
There are several ways to keep basil with roots. Whether you choose to keep it in a water-filled jar, plant it in a windowsill garden, or store it in the refrigerator, the key is to provide the basil with the right conditions to thrive. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh basil for weeks or even months!
