August 12, 2025, 3:44 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Improper care can quickly cause basil to wilt, drooping its leaves. Basil from the supermarket, in particular, tends to falter quickly. Here’s why that might happen and how to properly care for the plant to keep the leaves fresh and crisp.
1. Water Shortage
If the leaves of the basil droop and the soil is dry, it indicates a water shortage. Why is this noticeable in the leaves? Basil is largely composed of water. Moisture constantly evaporates through its soft, thin leaves. If you water the plant too little, it can’t compensate for the water loss. The pressure in the cells, known as turgor, changes. The leaves and stems become limp and droop.
For hobby gardeners, the solution is to water thoroughly—ideally until water runs out of the bottom of the pot. After about ten to fifteen minutes, you should pour off the excess water in the saucer.
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2. Overwatering
To avoid water shortage, hobby gardeners should not get carried away and water the plants too often. Overwatering can also cause basil to droop. If the soil is very wet and smells musty, it may indicate waterlogging. When the roots are submerged, root rot often occurs. This makes it harder for the plant to absorb water and nutrients.
In case of waterlogging, you should act quickly and remove the plant from the wet pot. Rotten roots should be removed before repotting basil into fresh, well-draining soil. The new pot should have a drainage hole to allow excess water to escape.
3. Temperature Stress
Basil is a heat-loving plant. If it’s too cold, it quickly droops its leaves. Temperatures below 59 degrees Fahrenheit harm the culinary herb. Hobby gardeners should ensure basil is placed in a sunny and warm spot.
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4. Lack of Light
Limp leaves with long, thin stems can also be due to a lack of light. An ideal location is bright with at least five to six hours of sunlight a day. Especially in winter or during extended rainy periods, this can’t always be guaranteed. A plant lamp can help in these cases.
5. Pot Too Small
Especially with basil from the supermarket, the pot is often the root of all problems. If basil shows signs of distress, such as drooping leaves, it’s wise to repot it.
Typically, the plant is sold in pots that are too small with poor soil. The roots need space to develop. Only healthy roots can absorb enough water and nutrients to produce healthy and tasty leaves. Hobby gardeners should repot the plant into a larger pot with fresh soil right after purchase.