Has the Tulsi plant started drying up in the scorching sun? Adopt these 5 easy measures, the courtyard will remain green:

News India Live, Digital Desk: In Hindu religion, Tulsi plant is considered extremely sacred and revered. Tulsi, present in the courtyard of almost every house, is not only the center of religious faith, but it also has many medicinal properties hidden in it. But as the temperature of summer rises, the basil plant starts drying or withering due to strong sunlight and hot winds (loo). Often people do not understand why the plant is turning black despite giving more water. Vastu and horticulture experts have suggested some surefire ways to keep Tulsi green even in the scorching heat.

‘Shade’ is necessary to protect from strong sunlight

The basil plant likes moderate sunlight, but direct and strong afternoon sunlight can scorch its tender leaves. If your plant is kept on the terrace or in a place where there is sunlight throughout the day, then shift it to a shady place between 12 noon and 4 pm. If the pot is heavy, you can make a shade of green net or cotton cloth on top. With this, the plant will get filtered sunlight and it will not dry out.

Right time and method of irrigation

The timing of watering basil in summer matters a lot. Avoid watering in the strong afternoon sun, because at that time the soil is hot and watering can damage the roots. Always water early in the morning or after sunset. Also, sprinkle water on the leaves of the plant. This clears the dust accumulated on the leaves and the plant feels fresh. Be careful that the pot is not waterlogged, otherwise the roots may rot.

Don’t forget to prune the manjari

When the seeds start growing on the basil plant, the growth of the plant stops because all the energy goes into ripening the seeds. In summer, as soon as the manjari starts drying up, immediately cut it with scissors and remove it. By removing the stem, the plant starts putting out new branches and becomes dense. You can put the removed stalks back in the soil or use them in tea.

Natural fertilizers and soil loosening

Do light weeding of the pot soil at least once a month. Due to this, oxygen reaches the roots. In summer, instead of chemical fertilizers, use cold fertilizers like ‘cow dung’ or ‘vermi compost’. If the plant is infested with insects, then mix Neem oil in water and spray it. It is completely natural and protects the plant without harming it.

‘Mulching’ technique to retain moisture

If it is very hot in your area, spread a layer of dry leaves or mulch on the top soil of the pot. This is called ‘mulching’. This technique does not allow the soil moisture to dry out quickly and keeps the roots cool. By adopting these small changes, you can see your basil flourishing throughout the summer.