How to Grow Sweet Thai Basil Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Sweet Thai Basil prefers temperatures between 65°F to 75°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 5 to 10 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity in about 40 to 60 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place Sweet Thai Basil seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a warm, light-filled area until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Transfer the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | 10-12 hours/day | Full spectrum | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Seedling | 12-14 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 6.5.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 150 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 50 parts per million
- Potassium: 200 parts per million
- Calcium: 150 parts per million
- Magnesium: 75 parts per million
- Trace Elements: Include Iron, Manganese, Zinc at 1 part per million each as needed.
Plant Benefits
- Culinary Uses: Essential in Thai cuisine, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
- Aromatic: Emits a pleasant, spicy aroma that enhances the sensory experience of your garden.
- Medicinal Properties: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Conclusion
Sweet Thai Basil is an excellent choice for hydroponic beginners looking to grow herbs with both culinary and medicinal benefits. It’s relatively easy to grow and provides a continuous yield of flavorful leaves.