Why Are My Basil Leaves Are Turning Yellow And The Stems Brown?

Question

My plant leaves are beginning to turn a pale yellow(almost white). The leaves are getting spots and the stem is beginning to turn brown. I originally thought it was getting too much sunlight so I put it in a shadier spot. It didn’t make a difference. I started adding more water, and it still hasn’t made a difference. My plant is still growing but I am worried. The stems are now turning brown and I don’t want it to get any worse. Any recommendations?

Answer 1

Basil will not get too much sun. You will do best to put it in the brightest spot possible. You could even stand to supplement some light.

Infection is likely. Overwatering will be the primary cause of infection. It can be much easier to replant with a fresh plant or seed, but you can save the existing plant with quite a bit of work.

Fungicides will be necessary. I would treat, both, the plant and the soil. This article will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

Pruning will be necessary, as well. You can cut the plant in half. This will help control the height, as well as make it bushier.

These plants are quite drought tolerant, so be sure that the soil has time to dry out, thoroughly, down to about halfway between waterings.

Here are some articles that will help you to care for basil:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/information-on-how-to-grow-basil-indoors.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/how-to-harvest-basil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/basil-watering-tips.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/pruning-back-basil-plants.htm