Thai Basil
Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora
Malay names: Selasih Thai, Daun Selasih
Aromatic herb that thrives warm; excellent in Kratky, DWC, or NFT; frequent harvesting encourages growth.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Bright light to full sun (4–6 h); slight shade in extreme heat
Temperature: 22–34°C
🪴 Container & Medium
Container: Kratky jars, DWC, or NFT; 2 inch net pots; per-plant reservoir 2–5 L for Kratky.
Medium / Solution: Medium: clay pebbles/coco plugs; Solution: pH 5.8–6.2, EC 1.0–1.6 mS/cm
💧 Watering / Solution Maintenance
Schedule: Top-up as needed (DWC/NFT); for Kratky, leave air gap and do not refill fully
Top-up: Maintain EC and leave 3–5 cm air gap for Kratky
pH 5.8–6.2; EC 1.0–1.6 mS/cm
🧪 Nutrients
Type: Herb/leafy hydro nutrient (A+B)
Frequency: Check weekly; full change 10–14 days (DWC/NFT)
Dosage/EC: EC 1.0–1.6 mS/cm; pH 5.8–6.2
🍓 Harvest
Start: 4–6 weeks from sowing
Seasonality: Year-round
Duration: Continuous cut-and-come-again
Harvest Indicators: Stems 15–25 cm; leaves fragrant and turgid
Tips: Pinch above a node; remove flower spikes to prolong leaf production.
🌱 Propagation
Seeds or softwood cuttings root easily in water.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Aphids/mites: Neem 0.5–1%; improve airflow; avoid over-N.
- Fungal leaf spots: Harvest to open canopy; avoid wet foliage late day.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Shelter from torrential rain; maintain airflow to reduce fungal issues.
📝 System Notes
Single plant per site; prune regularly to keep bushy.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Harvest weekly for best flavor
- Rotate plants for even light
Note
EC and pH are guidelines—adjust to plant response and your water source. In monsoon humidity, increase airflow and reduce overcrowding to limit disease.