How to Propagate Basil

Ocimum basilicum

Basil roots in water faster than almost any plant on this list — cut just below a leaf node and it will often show roots within a week. The catch is that basil cuttings are soft and wilt quickly once cut, so speed from cut to water matters more here than with houseplants.

Water propagation

1. Cut a 4–6 inch stem just below a set of leaves (a node), from a non-flowering stem.
2. Strip the lower leaves so no foliage sits below the waterline.
3. Place immediately in a glass of water — don’t let it sit out and wilt.
4. Set on a bright windowsill, out of harsh direct sun. Change the water every 2–3 days.

Roots appear in 1–2 weeks. Pot into soil once roots reach an inch or two, or keep growing in water indefinitely with occasional light feeding.

Growing from seed

Sow directly in moist potting mix, barely covering the seed. Keep warm and consistently moist. Germination takes 5–10 days.

When to propagate

Spring through summer for outdoor growing; indoors, basil can be started from cuttings nearly any time with a bright enough window.

Common problems

The cutting wilted before it could root. It sat out too long before going into water, or the water was cold. Move quickly and use room-temperature water.

Roots grew but the plant is leggy and weak. Not enough light. Basil wants strong, direct-ish light — a dim windowsill produces thin, stretched growth.

The stem turned slimy in water. Leaves left below the waterline rotting. Strip them off and change the water more frequently.

Questions people ask

Can I keep basil alive in water permanently? For a while, but it grows best transferred to soil once rooted — water-grown basil tends to be less vigorous long-term.

Does it matter which stem I cut? Cuttings from non-flowering stems root fastest and produce the best-tasting new growth.

Related

Water propagation hub · Similar plants: Mint, Oregano, Sage