A water culture system has been set-up at Argyle Alternative High School as part of an Environmental Studies course and to grow plants for the Outdoor Educational Classroom.  On February 9, 2007, basil seeds were planted in the water culture system.  We will be monitoring the progress of the basil plants over the next few weeks.

This is probably the most basic hydroponic system there is with the plants literally growing in water with nutrients added.

The floating platform is usually made of polystyrene and holds the pots in which the plants are started. Oxygen is supplied to the roots of the plants by aerating the solution with an airstone running off an air pump.

This system is one of the best for producing lettuce and other salad leaves giving very fast cropping. It is not practical for more long term crops or for larger plants. It is very good for education purposes particularly if an old aquarium is used as the tank so that the roots of the plants can be seen. Remember though that roots do not like light so cover the sides with black plastic.

From: http://www.thehydroponicum.com/abouthydroponics/waterculture.asp

Basil

 

Delicious pesto begins with fresh-picked basil leaves.

Annual Herb:  Dark green leaves have a heavy, spicy taste and smell.  Perfect for Italian cuisine.  Slow to bolt.  Grows to 60 cm (24”) tall.

Sowing: Sow seeds outdoors in late May to early June or start them inside and transplant after danger of frost is past.  Space 6 mm (1/4”) apart and sow 3 mm (1/8”) deep in a sunny site with average soil.

Comments:  Makes the best pesto sauce!

Sow: March Indoors

Sow: June Outdoors

Seed Depth:  3 mm (1/8”)

Seed Spacing: 6 mm (1/4”)

For more about Basil, refer to the following web site:

http://www.taunton.com/finegardening/pages/g00163.asp

Click on photo below to start slide show.