How to Grow Tulsi from Dried Seeds at Home: Step-By Step Guide

How to Grow Tulsi from Dried Seeds at Home: Step-By Step Guide

Here’s a beginner-friendly, expert-backed guide to help you plant, care for, and transplant tulsi in your garden or balcony.

Prepare the Soil

Start with a small pot or seed tray and fill it with well-draining potting soil. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top. Water the soil well so that it’s moist, but not soaking wet.

According to plant care specialists, tulsi thrives in moist, breathable soil that drains well. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil if needed.

Sow Seeds at the Right Time

Tulsi seeds should ideally be sown in early spring, about 4 to 6 weeks before your area’s last expected frost. If temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C), you can also sow them directly in your garden.

Sprinkle the tiny seeds over the surface of the soil and press them lightly with your fingers to settle them about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep. There’s no need to bury them too far.

Choose a Warm, Sunny Spot

Place the pot in a warm place that receives 6 to 8 hours of indirect sunlight daily. Tulsi seeds germinate best at temperatures above 68°F (20°C).

If your home doesn’t get enough natural sunlight, you can use a grow light placed 4 inches above the pot. For added warmth, a heat mat under the tray can help speed up germination.

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Keep the Soil Moist

Tulsi seeds typically sprout in 5 to 7 days. During this time, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mist the soil gently with a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds.

You can cover the pot with plastic wrap or place it inside a plastic bag to retain moisture. Just make sure to check the soil daily.

Transplant the Seedlings

Once the seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of true leaves (the ones that grow after the first two round leaves), they are ready to be moved.

• For potting:

Use an 8-inch (20 cm) container with drainage holes and fill it with fresh, well-draining soil. Carefully remove the seedling and plant it in the center.

• For garden planting:

Find a sunny spot with well-draining soil and plant the seedlings 12 to 15 inches (30–38 cm) apart.

Before fully moving your tulsi outdoors, remember to ‘harden’ the seedlings by gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight over two weeks. Start with one hour in partial sun and build up from there. This helps prevent shock from outdoor conditions.

Tulsi is more than just a plant, it’s a symbol of purity and wellness in many Indian homes. Growing it from dried seeds at home is not only easy but also rewarding, both spiritually and medicinally.

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