Tulsi at Home: How to Grow and Care for the Holy Basil Plant

About the Plant

Tulsi, or holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), is an aromatic perennial native to the Indian subcontinent. It is kept in a Tulsi Vrindavan in many Hindu homes and holds an important place in daily worship and in festivals such as Tulsi Vivah.

Light and Soil

Tulsi grows best with four to six hours of direct sunlight and well-drained, loamy soil mixed with some compost. A pot with drainage holes prevents water from collecting at the roots.

Watering

Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Keep the soil slightly moist in summer and reduce watering in winter, when growth slows.

Pruning and Seasonal Care

Pinch off the flowering spikes (manjari) so the plant stays bushy and produces more leaves. Protect it from frost in cold regions, and replant from seed or cuttings when plants turn woody.

This is general gardening and cultural information and makes no health claims. Based on common horticultural guidance.