Yellow Leaves on Basil: Causes & Solutions

Basil was already used as a seasoning in ancient Greece. Its popularity is unbroken. In many kitchens there is a pot with the herb on the windowsill. But what causes yellow leaves to suddenly appear on basil?

Location factors

basil grows to a height of around 60 centimeters outdoors. The herb needed sandy, loamy soil and a sunny spot in the garden. Pour Regularly and keep it up Location free of weeds. Basil is a Heavy feeder. Fertilizing from May to September keeps the herb healthy.

What causes yellow basil leaves?

Below you will find the most common causes responsible for yellow leaves on basil. With our solution tips you will always react correctly.

1. sunburn

Basil can react sensitively to too much sun. Do not place potted plants directly on the south-facing window pane.

Solution: Choose a sunny location that is protected from the midday sun.

2. cold

Low temperatures cannot tolerate the popular herb. If the temperature drops below 10°C, basil goes in. The herb can survive temperatures between 10 and 15 °C for a short time.

Solution: Before the start of the cooler season, plant basil from the bed into pots. So you can keep the tasty leaves for a while to harvest.

3. Nutrient deficiency

The culinary herb is a heavy eater. Too few nutrients can cause basil leaves to turn yellow and die.

Solution: Fertilize with organic liquid fertilizer from May to September. We recommend using herbal or vegetable fertilizer. You can plant outdoors with weekly compost or horn shavings take care of.

4. Overfertilization

Yellow leaves, long shoots and little aroma are typical signs that your basil has received too much nitrogen.

Solution: Use organic liquid fertilizer if possible. Follow the instructions carefully. Do not use more fertilizer than directed.

5. Pouring errors

The herb needs regular moisture. If basil is too dry, the leaves turn yellow. Waterlogging also has the same effect.

Solution: Only water when the soil is dry. Do the thumb test in the morning. Only water in the root area; the leaves must not get wet. It is best to use rainwater.

6. Change of location

Basil is often bought in the supermarket. Changing locations from air-conditioned rooms lit with artificial light is a major challenge for the plants.

Solution: Acclimatize basil plants to the changed conditions slowly. First place the plant in a partially shaded, protected place in the apartment. Only plant them outdoors after two to three days.

7. Damage caused by packaging and transport

Herbs are usually sold in supermarkets in pots that are covered with a plastic cover. The plants often sit squeezed together in the market for several weeks. Transport further weakens the plants.

Since the herb pots are watered in the covers, moisture quickly builds up. Rotting and yellow leaves on basil are a common result.

Solution: At home, do not immediately remove the plastic cover from the pot. Gradually pull it down a little further so that the plant can slowly get used to the new location and develop.

8. High age

Weakened, older basil plants are often no longer able to absorb nutrients as easily. That's why yellow leaves sometimes appear on them.

Solution: Cut the plant back heavily and bring it back to life. To do this, use clean, sharp scissors.

9. Lack of space

Basil often reacts with yellow leaves if the space in the pot becomes too limited.

Solution: Divide large plants and plant them in pots with fresh herb soil. Only fertilize after six to eight weeks. This is how long the nutrients in the herbal soil last. To divide, do the following:

• Carefully remove the basil plant from the pot.
• Loosen the roots.
• Divide the plant with sharp pruning shears.
• Add a thin layer of gravel to the pots. Fill up some herb soil. Plant the new plants.
• Fill the pots with herb soil. Press the top layer firmly.
• Water the plants.

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