Basil-Clove, also known as alfavacão, is a shrub native to Asia. It has a perennial life cycle and can reach up to 1.5 meters in height in nature. When grown in a pot, it reaches a maximum of 1 meter.
The leaves of basil-clove are green, petiolate, with serrated edges and aromatic. The flowers are delicate, small, and purple in color, with the heart of the flowers being able to vary.
Basil-clove can be propagated by cuttings or seeds. It is used as a condiment and medicinal herb.
Climate and temperature
Basil-clove prefers warm, humid climates and plenty of sun. It tolerates well the cultivation in partial shade and a more temperate climate, but it develops better in regions with warm climates.
It is important to know that extreme sun can damage the plant. Therefore, if you live in a region with extreme heat, cultivate basil-clove in partial shade.
The ideal temperature for basil-clove is between 14 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant does not tolerate well severe frosts, strong winds, and extreme cold.
Soil
Basil-clove prefers a well-fertile soil with good drainage. It is important that the soil is also light and retains a little moisture.
If the cultivation of basil-clove is in a pot, the recommended substrate is a mixture of potting soil, coarse sand, and a little worm castings. The pot should be of medium or large size. Use pebbles in the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.
If the cultivation of basil-clove is directly in the soil, just make sure that the soil is fertile and does not get waterlogged.
Watering
Basil-clove likes a moist soil, but it does not tolerate waterlogging or lack of watering. In other words, the plant does not tolerate prolonged drought.
To prevent basil-clove from suffering, keep the soil moist, regardless of the season or climate.
If the cultivation of basil-clove is in a pot, the watering in summer is every one or two days. In winter, the waterings are every two days or more.
If the cultivation of basil-clove is in the soil, the waterings in summer are daily. In winter, the waterings are every four or five days. However, the waterings can even be suspended if the winter in your region is rainy and very humid.
Other care
Basil-clove can be pruned to stimulate growth and flowering. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring.
The plant can also be fertilized every two months, with an organic or mineral fertilizer.
Pests and diseases
Basil-clove is a plant resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by scale insects, aphids, and thrips.
To control these pests, use natural insecticides, such as neem oil or potassium soap.
Conclusion
Basil-clove has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
As an ornamental plant, basil-clove is a beautiful and flowering plant. Its flowers are small and purple in color, with the heart of the flowers being able to vary. They attract hummingbirds and other pollinating insects.
Basil-clove is an easy-to-grow and easy-care plant. It is resistant to pests and diseases, and it can be grown in warm or temperate climates.
Basil-clove is a versatile and easy-to-grow plant. It is a great option for those looking for an aromatic and medicinal plant for the garden or for cultivation in a pot.
Here are some tips for growing basil-clove:
- Choose a sunny or partially shaded location.
- Plant basil-clove in a fertile and well-drained soil.
- Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize the plant every two months.
- Prune the plant in late winter or early spring.
With proper care, basil-clove will thrive and provide you with many benefits.
I have made some minor changes to the translation to improve clarity and readability. For example, I have changed “planta arbustiva” to “shrub” and “perene”