Why did my hydroponic basil wither and die?

[fldhkybnva]

I have been using a lot of basil and so I figured it'd be a good idea to get a hydropic plant. I have never had a green thumb so I probably should have known better, but maybe with some tips, I could keep it alive. When I got home, I removed the plant with roots attached and removed any low hanging leaves and then followed the instructions and placed it in a container of water with the roots covered. Now, after 3 days it is all wilted away and looks quite pathetic. Any tips?

[Bacardi1]

In about a month or so, garden centers & big box stores will be overrun with herb plants - basil included.

I suggest you buy a pot or two & plant them in larger containers (in soil), place them in a sunny location (Basil NEEDS full sun) outdoors & enjoy/use them that way.

You can also try them potted in a sunny windowsill (southern exposure), but that can be hit or miss.

[fldhkybnva]

Thanks, Ill give that a shot. I actually had pretty good luck in the fridge of all places - in a plastic bag both just in the bag and wrapped in a wet papertowel. My other experiments on the counter in water didn't make it but your suggestion is a great one, thanks.

[Jay F]

Not enough sun?

[Novelli]

What kind of food or nutrient suppliment did you add to the water to feed the basil plant?
Just placing the rootball in water will just drown them as there's limited oxygen and basically no nutrients in the growing medium.

[fldhkybnva]

I see, anything that you suggest? I clearly have no experience with this and just followed the instructions on the bag which said to just put it in water.

[boogiebaby]

You might have better luck on the Gardening board.

[fldhkybnva]

Thanks, I forgot it exists.