Winter can be a bit challenging for your basil plant. Cold winds can cause its leaves to wilt, and improper watering techniques can also harm it ... read more

With the arrival of winter, nature begins to change. Leaves begin to fall, and many plants even die. In such a situation, delicate plants like the Tulsi plant, which thrives in warm climates, often become weakened by the effects of cold. Therefore, wilting of leaves, fading of color, or even the entire plant drying up are common problems during winter.

But by taking some precautions and care, you can keep your basil plant green even in winter. Let's learn how to protect basil from the cold (Tips to Keep Tulsi Green).

Proper location and sunlight

In winter, sunlight becomes crooked and the days become shorter. Tulsi needs at least 5-6 hours of sunlight each day. Place the plant indoors near a window that receives direct morning sunlight. As the temperature drops at night, remove it from the window and place it in a warm place inside, as cold drafts and frost can harm the plant. For plants kept on the balcony, cover them at night with a plastic sheet or a light sheet of green net.

The right way and time to water

In winter, the soil dries out slowly, reducing the ability of plant roots to absorb water. Overwatering can cause root rot. Therefore, check the soil moisture before watering. Insert your finger into the soil and water only if the top inch of soil appears dry. Always water during the afternoon, in full sun, so that the soil does not remain overly moist until the cool hours of the night. The water should be at room temperature. You can also lightly spray water on the leaves with a spray bottle, but avoid doing so in the evening.

Temperature control

Basil cannot tolerate temperatures below 10-12°C. Keep the plant in a location that maintains a temperature between 15-25°C. To protect it from cold winds, lightly mulch the pot (dry leaves or sawdust), which will help maintain a stable soil temperature. In colder areas, use plastic or cement pots, as these don't cool quickly. Bringing the plant inside at night is the best option.

Proper fertilization and pruning

Tulsi grows slowly in winter. Therefore, reduce the use of chemical fertilizers or organic manure containing cow dung . Apply a small amount of light fertilizer such as vermicompost or neem cake once every one and a half months. To keep the plant healthy, regularly prune dry, yellow, or wilted branches and leaves. This will encourage new branches and keep the plant dense. After flowering, break off the buds so that the plant's energy is focused on strengthening the leaves.

Protection from diseases and pests

Pests are fewer in winter, but excessive humidity or wetness increases the risk of fungus and mold. If a white powdery coating appears on the leaves, spray a light neem oil spray (mix 5 ml of neem oil and a few drops of liquid soap in one liter of water). Ensure proper drainage of the soil. Ensure the pot has holes in the bottom and is not waterlogged, and maintain the correct distance between plants.

Picture Courtesy: Freepik