Honest review: Basil is rewarding but powdery mildew on basil in cool damp conditions is real

Basil is a genuinely satisfying plant to grow, but I want to be upfront about one thing: powdery mildew on basil in cool damp conditions. I've dealt with it twice now and it takes consistent attention to manage.

Beyond that, attractive to bees and other pollinators when in flower makes it one of my favourites in the collection. I keep it in a hanging basket with trailing herbs like thyme which suits it well. Learning about dividing clumping herbs like chives every two or three years has been essential. overwintering woody perennials like rosemary with minimal protection is worth waiting for — the plant really justifies itself then. Four stars because of that persistent issue.