Basil is a popular herb that can be grown easily outdoors as well as indoors. One of the most important factors that plays a key role in basil growth is the amount of direct sunlight it receives throughout the day. If basils do not get sufficient sunlight, the growth may slow down, and the flavor may be affected. This blog explains basil’s sun requirements for healthy growth and a strong flavor.
Understanding Basil’s Sun Requirements: Does It Need Full Sun?
Basil requires full sun to thrive and 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for healthy, fast growth and best flavor. Growing basil plants outdoors is best, as it can get plenty of direct sunlight to thrive. However, if you're thinking of planting basil indoors, plant it on the south-facing or west-facing windows to get enough direct sunlight.
How Many Hours of Sunlight Does Basil Actually Need Daily?
Basil needs at least 6-8 hours of full sunlight in a day. However, it can grow well, even if kept in partial shade on extremely hot summer days, in some parts of the US. Basils are sensitive to frost; therefore, they need to be protected from harsh cold nights.
What Happens to Basil When It Doesn't Get Enough Sun?
Basil thrives under direct sunlight and may not grow properly if it doesn't get enough sun. The stems of basil may become long and weak due to lack of sunlight. If planted in a low-light area, you might also notice leggy stems in basil as the stem stretches towards the sunlight. The leaves may not grow to their best and remain small. Lack of light can disturb the process of photosynthesis, which then affects the growth of the plant and distorts the flavor.
Can Basil Get Too Much Sun? (Signs of Sun Scorch)
If basils are kept for prolonged periods under direct sun during extremely hot climates, it might cause scorched leaves, wilting, and slower growth. The leaves may show brown, crispy edges, and turn faded green or black. Though basil leaves love full sun and grow best with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight, long exposure to sun during extremely hot climates can damage the plant.
Growing Basil Indoors vs. Outdoors: Sun Exposure Tips
Basils can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips to provide just enough sunlight to grow basil:
Growing Basil Indoors
Basil grows best when placed under direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. If you're planning to grow basil indoors, there might not be sufficient sunlight for healthy growth; therefore, you may need to use grow lights. To provide the adequate intensity and spectrum for basil, full-spectrum LED grow lights are an ideal option. Make sure that you adjust the lights 12-18 inches above the basil plants. The light can later be adjusted as the plant grows.
Growing Basil Outdoors
If you want to plant your basil outdoors, make sure that they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. However, protect them from direct sunlight during extreme hot climates to prevent scorching of leaves or leaves turning brown with crispy edges.
Best Basil Varieties for Sunny vs. Shadier Garden Spots
There are multiple varieties of basil, some best suited to grow indoors while others are best suited to grow outdoors. Here is the list of both:
Basil Varieties For Shadier Spots
Different types of basils are suited for different growing spots. If you want to grow your basils indoors or in shadier garden spots, the following varieties can be used:
- Sweet Basils
- Genovese Basils
- Greek Basil
- Lemon Basil
Basil Varieties For Sunny Spots
There are many varieties of basil that thrive in the sun. Some of the most common basils to grow under direct sunlight include:
- Genovese Sweet Basils
- Siam Queen Thai Basils
- Purple Ruffles Basils
- Greek Basils
Conclusion
Basil grows best in full sun, for at least six to eight hours a day. Though they are sun lovers, you might need to keep them in partial shade during extremely hot summer days to prevent leaf scorch and other problems. Basils can be easily grown indoors under grow lights as well as outdoors under the sun. Just make sure that it receives optimum direct sunlight so that you get a healthy basil with the best flavor.
