Krishna Tusli

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing 

The Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum ‘Krishna’, also known as Shyama or Holy Basil) is a sacred and beneficial herb that thrives with simple, consistent care. The “Krishna” variety is known for its darker, purple-tinged leaves and stems.

Here is a guide to help you care for your Krishna Tulsi :

1. Sunlight and Placement

• Sunlight: Krishna Tulsi is a sun-loving plant. It requires 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best growth and strongest medicinal properties. Full sun is ideal.
• Placement: Place the plant in a bright, warm location, such as a sunny windowsill (east, north, or south-facing) or a balcony/terrace.
• Temperature: It thrives in warm weather, ideally between 68∘F and 86∘F (20∘C and 30∘C). Protect it from cold and frost; if temperatures drop below 50∘F (10∘C), you must bring it indoors.

2. Watering

• Moderate Watering: Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. It likes slightly moist soil but is highly susceptible to root rot from overwatering.
• Drainage: Ensure the pot has excellent drainage holes. If you use a saucer, empty it after watering to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water.
• Seasonal Adjustment: Water more frequently in hot summer months and reduce the frequency in winter when the plant’s growth slows.

3. Soil and Potting

• Well-Draining Soil: Use a rich, loamy, and well-aerated potting mix. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and sand/perlite works well.
• Pot Material: Clay or terracotta pots are often preferred as they help wick away excess moisture, preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged.
• Aeration: Occasionally loosen the top layer of the soil with a fork or hand tool to prevent compaction and allow the roots to breathe.

4. Pruning and Maintenance (The Key to Bushy Growth)

• Pinch Off Flower Buds (Manjaris): This is the most important step for a healthy, bushy plant. Pinch off the flowering heads (manjaris) as soon as you see them forming. Allowing the plant to flower and set seed diverts the plant’s energy, making it tall, leggy, and weaker.
• Regular Pruning: To encourage side branching and a fuller, bushier look, regularly pinch off the top leaves and about an inch of the stem once the plant is established. Always cut or pinch just above a leaf node (the point where leaves meet the stem).
• Remove Old Leaves: Remove any dried, yellowing, or dead leaves promptly.

5. Fertilizing

• Organic is Best: Use organic fertilizers like compost, cow dung manure (well-aged or dehydrated), or organic liquid fertilizer/compost tea.
• Frequency: Feed the plant once a month or every 3-4 weeks during the active growing season (spring through monsoon/summer).
• Tip: When fertilizing, apply the fertilizer to already moist soil to avoid burning the roots.

Common Problems Krishna Tusli

• Yellow/Brown Leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure the pot drains freely.
• Droopy/Wilted Leaves: This can be due to either underwatering or root rot (from overwatering). Check the soil moisture to diagnose the issue.