Apart from being a medicinal plant, Tulsi also has religious beliefs. This plant is considered very sacred in Hindu religion. People even worship the tulsi plant. It is said that Goddess Lakshmi resides in it, hence everyone wants to plant a Tulsi plant in thier courtyard. Whereas due to its medicinal properties, people also add basil leaves in tea.
But, due to lack of proper care the basil plant starts withering. Especially in winter, the plant suffers a lot due to cold winds and lack of sunlight. In the winter season, its leaves face problems like drying, withering and weakening. However, if you take proper care of the plant during winter, the plant will remain green even in the absence of sunlight.
Give the right amount of water to the plant
Tulsi does not require much water in cold weather. If you give too much water, the chances of its roots rotting increases. in such a situation, it would be better to let the soil in the pot dry and then water it only after hoeing. In cold weather you have to give minimum water. Apart from this, keep in mind that the water should not be too cold.
Protect basil from cold winds
During the winter season, you will have to try to protect the basil plant from cold winds. If your plant is kept outside, then keep it indoors at least during the night. Or cover the plant with the help of something. Actually, keeping the plant in open space stops the growth of the plant due to cold winds and dew.
Avoid adding fertilizer to the plant
During the winter season, the basil plant goes into dormancy or hibernation mode. During this time, if you put too much fertilizer in the pot, the plants may get burnt. Therefore,one should avoid applying fertilizer in the months of December and January. If you feel that the plant really needs fertilizer then you can use mustard cake.
remove dry leaves
In order for the basil plant to grow properly, you have to remove its stalks along with the dry leaves.For this, keep cutting frequently, this will keep the plant dense instead of growing tall. In this way,you can keep the basil plant green by taking proper care of it in winter. Even if you want to plant a Tulsi plant in winter, these things should be kept in mind.
How to take care of basil plant in winter
How can I propagate Tulsi for better home gardening?
Interview with Dr. Aditi Sharma: Expert on Medicinal Plants and Tulsi Care
Editor,Time.news: Welcome, Dr. Sharma! It’s a pleasure to have you here. Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Tulsi, or basil, especially its significance in both medicinal and cultural contexts. To start off,can you explain why Tulsi is considered so sacred in Hinduism?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Thank you for having me! Tulsi, ofen referred to as the “holy basil,” holds a special place in Hindu culture. It is believed that goddess Lakshmi resides within the plant, making it a symbol of purity and wealth. Many households plant Tulsi in their courtyards to foster a spiritual connection and to invoke blessings. Beyond its religious significance, it also boasts remarkable medicinal properties, which is why it’s cherished in both homes and traditional medicine.
Editor: Absolutely,its dual role is fascinating. However, many people struggle to keep their Tulsi plants alive during the winter months. What are some common mistakes that lead to their decline?
Dr.Aditi Sharma: one of the primary mistakes is overwatering. During cold weather, Tulsi requires minimal water—too much can lead to root rot. It’s essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter. Additionally, exposing the plant to cold winds without protection can hinder its growth. Ideally, keeping the plant indoors at night or providing a cover can make a critically important difference.
Editor: That’s very insightful! Many enthusiasts also wonder about fertilization during winter. What do you recommend?
Dr. aditi Sharma: During winter, Tulsi enters a dormancy or hibernation phase, and applying fertilizers can actually harm the plant. If fertilization is deemed necessary, a very light application of mustard cake is preferable. The key is to minimize intervention and let the plant rest.
Editor: Great advice for our readers. Speaking of care, how important is it to remove dry leaves, and what impact does it have on the plant’s health?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Regularly removing dry leaves and stalks is crucial for maintaining healthy growth. By pruning these parts, you encourage denser growth rather than tall and sparse foliage. This practice helps the plant to thrive, especially during the winter months when it faces various stressors.
Editor: This is valuable knowledge for anyone looking to cultivate their own Tulsi. Are there any specific tips you’d like to share for readers hoping to plant Tulsi during the winter?
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Absolutely! Firstly, ensure that when you plant Tulsi, it’s positioned where it can get some indirect sunlight, even in winter. Protect it from extreme cold by either bringing it indoors during the night or providing it with proper coverings. And remember, always check the moisture level in the soil before watering. With a little care, you can keep your Tulsi plant vibrant during the colder months.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for sharing these astonishing insights on Tulsi care. It’s fantastic to see how its sacredness intertwines with practical gardening advice.
Dr. Aditi Sharma: Thank you! I hope this encourages more people to cultivate and cherish this remarkable plant—both as a spiritual companion and for its numerous health benefits.
Editor: We certainly hope so too! For our readers, remember that with the right care, your Tulsi plant can thrive, making your home not only beautiful but also enriching in both spirit and wellness.