How to grow basil in a container

[Anonymous]

Let me start by saying that I pretty much know nothing about gardening. I would love to grow basil that I could use to make pesto. When do I plant it? How much sun does it need? How often would I have to water it? I'm really bad about keeping plants alive, so is basil pretty hardy?

[Anonymous]

You can buy a basil plant at a farmers market, garden center or grocery store in the spring. They need lots of sun, and do really well outside if watered regularly. The hotter it is the more water they need; if your plant starts drooping definitely water it. If you buy it in a small pot transplant it to a larger one so that it can grow to its full potential. They are hearty between frost dates, but they slow down and fade when the days get shorter in the fall. Also look into how to "pinch" it as it grows to keep it full rather than leggy.