Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is an important plant in Hindu tradition that is commonly grown outside Indian homes. Deciding which side of the house to plant Tulsi on is not a choice made lightly, as different placements are said to invite different energies and results. In this article, we’ll explore the religious and practical considerations behind Tulsi placement to help you choose the optimal location for your sacred basil plant.
North Side
Planting Tulsi on the north side of the house is considered highly auspicious in Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and design. The north is associated with the caretaking and nourishing energies of the divine female embodiment Kuber. Placing Tulsi here can promote family nourishment, financial prosperity, and overall abundance.
On a practical level, the north side tends to get less direct sunlight during the hot afternoons. Tulsi thrives best in full sun conditions but also needs protection from afternoon heat. A north placement allows the plant to receive gentle morning light without getting scorched in the hottest part of the day.
East Side
After north, an east-facing placement for Tulsi is considered the next most beneficial. The east represents new beginnings and the rising energy of Surya, the sun god. Situating Tulsi here can activate new opportunities, improved health, and spiritual development for inhabitants of the home.
In terms of sunlight exposure, an eastern placement gives Tulsi morning sun to help the plant grow vigorously. However, care must be taken to ensure the plant has adequate shade and moisture during the afternoon when eastern exposures bear the brunt of sunshine and heat.
West Side
Locating Tulsi on the west side of a home is not recommended in Vastu. The west represents endings and the descendant energy of the sun. Having Tulsi here may promote inauspicious influences and decline rather than growth and abundance.
The hot western sun can also easily damage Tulsi’s leaves. While the plant can tolerate some afternoon warmth, too much direct western exposure risks drying out the soil and burning the foliage.
South Side
After north, planting Tulsi on the south side is the next best Vastu recommendation. South corresponds with fire energy and the fame and reputation of the home. Situating Tulsi here can enhance fame and public approval for the family.
In terms of sunlight, the south gives Tulsi bright light through most of the day. Care should be taken not to let the soil dry out too much, as the southern sun can quickly deplete moisture.
Southeast Side
If south and east are both auspicious on their own, locating Tulsi in the southeast quadrant combines the best of both. This placement harmoniously activates the benefits of new beginnings from the east and reputation from the south. Overall, it promotes positivity and prosperity for the home.
In terms of sunlight, the southeast provides abundant morning light but midday shade, giving Tulsi the optimum balance it needs to thrive.
Northeast Side
Situating Tulsi in the northeast corner combines the auspicious influences of north and east. This placement promotes family nourishment and new opportunities. Overall, it’s an excellent spot for those seeking general abundance.
Like the southeast, the northeast offers Tulsi an ideal blend of ample morning sun followed by gentle midday shade and moisture.
Northwest Side
Locating Tulsi in the northwest is less ideal, as west is inauspicious. However, the nourishing influence of the north can help counteract and improve the western energies. Overall this placement will promote fairly harmonious vibrations.
Care should still be taken to shade Tulsi from hot afternoon sun on the west side. Morning light will be sufficient from the east exposure.
Southwest Side
Of all options, planting Tulsi in the southwest is the least recommended placement in Vastu. It combines the inauspicious west with the fiery south, promoting turmoil and decline rather than prosperity. Only plant Tulsi here if no other options exist.
The hot western sun needs to be countered with ample moisture and afternoon shade to prevent burning Tulsi’s leaves.
Near Water Source
Regardless of direction, situating Tulsi near a water source like a pond or fountain is always beneficial. The plant thrives when ample moisture is available, and the serene presence of water enhances the peaceful vibrations. If possible, choose a north, east or southeast placement near water.
Pot or Ground
Another key factor is whether to plant Tulsi directly in the ground or in a pot. Containers allow flexibility to adjust placement as needed to find the optimal spot. However, according to Vastu, planting Tulsi directly in the ground is most strengthening for the home’s energies. Choose in-ground over potted whenever possible.
Near Temples
It is also considered highly auspicious to plant Tulsi around temples, shrines, altars or other sacred structures. The synergistic energy enhances devotion, meditation and inner peace.
Tulsi Pairings
Some recommendations suggest planting a paired set of Tulsi plants, with one Rama Tulsi plant representing the divine masculine, and one Krishna Tulsi plant embodying the divine feminine. This balanced set of energies provides wholeness.
The optimal placement for a Tulsi pair is in the northeast, with the Krishna Tulsi on the east side and Rama Tulsi on the north. This pattern promotes harmony.
With Other Plants
Certain plants make favorable companions for Tulsi in the garden space. Combinations that enhance the growth and vibration include:
- Basil
- Mint
- Marigold
- Rose
- Lavender
On the other hand, planting Tulsi next to eucalyptus, rue or certain vines is not recommended, as these can stunt the basil’s growth.
Vaastu Energies by Direction
To summarize the Vaastu energies associated with different areas of the home:
| Direction | Energy | Effects of Placing Tulsi |
|---|---|---|
| North | Nourishing, caretaking | Promotes family nourishment, prosperity |
| East | New beginnings, creativity | Activates opportunities, health, spirituality |
| West | Descending, endings | Inauspicious, promotes decline |
| South | Fame, reputation | Enhances fame, public approval |
Ideal Sunlight Conditions
While Vastu direction meanings are important, sunlight exposure is also key for a healthy Tulsi plant. Here are the ideal conditions:
- At least 6 hours of full sun daily, ideally in morning
- Afternoon shade to protect from heat
- Shelter from harsh midday sun
- Careful watering so soil never dries out completely
Balancing the spiritual direction with adequate sunlight and water will provide the best growing results.
Conclusion
In summary, the north, east and southeast are the most auspicious Vastu directions to situate Tulsi on your home’s property. This activates prosperity energies and aligns with the plant’s sunlight needs. If possible, choose an in-ground placement paired with a water source and compatible companion plants for the full benefits. Consider both sunlight practicalities and spiritual direction meanings to choose the ideal Tulsi location for your home.
