How To Grow Basil in the Middle of Winter

I wish I could turn back time and save the lives of all of the little potential basil plants in all of the clamshell packages I bought from the grocery store. Why was it that I only saw withering green leaves that would inevitably turn brown and slimy, instead of an opportunity for new life? While I know that I can’t get a “do-over,” I can at least “do better” — especially now that I know the tricks for growing new basil plants from those once compost-pile-doomed clamshell cuttings. Here’s how you can too.

Step 1: Grab Some Basil Cuttings

The first step is procuring a few basil cuttings. You can find them in the aforementioned clamshell packages in the produce section of your grocery store (you don’t have to buy basil plants with roots). Or, if you have a basil plant already, you can trim a stem from there. You'll use the stem, not the leaves, to grow (or propagate) a new plant.

For ultimate success, trim the stem at a 45-degree angle (to maximize surface area for water absorption) right below a leaf node (the place where leaves connect to the stem), keeping at least 3 to 4 inches of the stem above the cut intact. Pinch off any stray leaves from the bottom inch or two of the stem, so that when placed in water, no leaves will be submerged.

Step 2: Root Them in Water

For best results (and the most fun science project), grab a small glass bottle and add your basil stems. Fill the jar with water, just enough that the bottom inch or so of the stems is submerged, and use the sides or the mouth of the jar to keep the stems upright. Set the jar in a window and change the water every couple of days. After about a week, you should see roots sprouting from your basil stem. This is the visual indication that it’s time to transfer it to a pot with potting soil.

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Step 3: Plant Them in Soil

Make sure your pot is at least eight to 12 inches wide and fill it with potting soil. Scoop out a spot in the middle, add the basil, and then cover the roots with soil. Water it right away, then water it every couple of days or when the soil is dry to the touch.

Room temperature is ideal in the winter for your new basil plant, says Lara Clevenger, MSH, RDN, CPT. “Basil likes a warm, bright area, but not too much direct sun.” And if you’ve got an empty 2-liter soda bottle handy, she suggests creating a little greenhouse for your plant. “Cut it in half, slip the potted basil in the bottom half and place the top of the bottle over the basil cutting.”

This creates a humid environment that encourages your plant to grow. If things start to get too humid (it’s so steamy you can’t see inside), simply remove the cover and let it breathe. If you don’t have a bottle, you can also loosely cover the basil with plastic wrap or plastic bag held upright with bamboo skewers sunk into the soil to create a similar greenhouse effect. Follow these steps and pretty soon you’ll have a blossoming basil plant, ready to share its abundant leaves with you! Repeat this process frequently, and you’ll have an endless supply!

Step 4: Using Your Basil Bounty

The options for using all of your fresh basil are plentiful. It can be muddled for cocktails, used in sauces, or blended to create a delicious pesto. In case you need a few more ideas, use it for this tomato basil soup, or if you’re in the mood for chicken, try it in this stuffed chicken with basil and mozzarella. Cure your pasta salad cravings with this tortellini pasta salad or use it fresh, as the perfect garnish for this caramelized zucchini pasta.