1. Overwatering and poor drainage
Likelihood: HighYellowing that starts on older, lower basil leaves with limp stems usually means roots sit in soggy soil. Herbs grown near thirsty crops like peppers in beds often get watered more than they tolerate.
Identification
- remove_circle_outlineLower leaves yellow first, then soften, while newest top growth stays light green
- remove_circle_outlineSoil feels wet more than two inches down even several days after watering
- remove_circle_outlineContainer or bed has no clear drainage holes or water pools around basil stems
- remove_circle_outlineRoots appear tan or brown and smell sour when you gently dig near the crown
