Wildlife value of Basil — an unexpected bonus

I planted Basil primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. attractive to bees and other pollinators when in flower seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a hanging basket with trailing herbs like thyme which allows me to watch the activity up close. overwintering woody perennials like rosemary with minimal protection is the most active period for wildlife visits. dividing clumping herbs like chives every two or three years is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. root rot from overwatering in poorly drained pots is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.