Basil likes to bask in the sun. There is nothing more fragrant than a sunbathing basil plant. Keep the roots moist but not saturated, taking care to not get the leaves wet. I keep basil separate from the raised garden for two reasons: it will take over any garden, and I have found basil to be very susceptible to tomato hornworms.
These voracious pests will strip a plant overnight and move on to lunch before you’ve had your morning coffee. I walked out to water the garden one morning only to find stems where the leaves had been. I let out a substantial shriek that could be heard around the neighborhood. The grower of the replacement plant said to check the undersides of the leaves first thing in the morning for the culprit. When leaves started disappearing again, I did that and found a worm completely stuffed hanging out underneath a leaf. I put aside my squeamishness and plucked it off the leaf, flung it to the ground, covered it with a rock, and stomped on it.
Basil loves frequent haircuts. It will grow back better than ever after a good trim. If basil starts to get leggy, you can trim it to get it to grow out again. Never trim more than a third off the plant, however, as this creates stress for the roots.
Characteristics: Some maintenance required; Does well with frequent trims; Prefers well-drained soil; Repels flies and mosquitoes
Water: Likes the roots to be kept moist
Sun: Basks in the sun and is susceptible to frost
Companions: Tomatoes (improves their flavor); Peppers; Oregano; Asparagus; Petunias
Enemies: Sage