Basil is an aromatic herb that is a must have in any herb garden, used widely in many cultures for cooking, being the key ingredient for the Italian staple Pesto. Basil grows in the spring and summer months. With many varieties, available offering a variation of flavours. It is well worth making a space in the garden for more than one type of basil.
Planting Calendar
Basil is best planted from mid September to early March.
Harvest In
40 - 60 Days
Start harvesting basil leaves from 40 days after planting. Pinch out leaves from growing tips of the stems, just above above a leaf joint - this will encourage extra growth from the leaves below, ensuring your basil plant remains lush and bushy. Remove flowers to extend the growing season of your plant.
Prepare
Position
Basil likes a hot growing season, so plant in a spot that gets full sun. It grows well in the garden and in containers alike. It doesn’t like cold or wet situations and as it is an annual it will die off at the end of the season when the cold weather sets in. Plant close to the kitchen for easy access.
Soil
When planted into the ground Basil likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Mix Kings Organic Compost and Sheep Pellets in to the existing soil. When grown in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains added water storage crystals and Saturaid, two products that help maintain moisture in the soil.
Plant
In the Ground: Seeds may be direct sown. Alternatively seedlings can be planted into the garden once they reach 5cm + in height, allowing 20 – 40 cm between the plants. In a Pot: Choose a pot that leaves 20-25cm in diameter. Use Kings Container Mix and water every day especially in summer. Water deeply after planting with Aquaticus Garden Booster added to the water.
Care
Watering
Basil likes the soil to be kept moist not to dry out, drying out may make the plant go to seed sooner. Water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soils surface. Avoid getting water on the leaves.
Feeding
Regular feeding during the growing season promotes lush leaf growth. Fertilise with Kings Fast Food or for an organic option use Organic Garden Booster.
Protecting
Protect from slugs and snails with Tui Quash snail and slug Pellets.
Spraying
Caterpillars and aphids can be a problem with basil, spray with Natures Way Vegie Insect Gun.
Pruning
Pinching the tips out of the top of the plants will encourage new growth. If flowers start to develop remove them as soon as you see them.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Basil is a great companion plant for tomatoes, said to increase the flavour.
Expert Tip
Over summer basil is prone to go to seed. To avoid, water your basil consistently, regularly pick, remove flowers and remove parts of the plant that go to seed.
Tip
Avoid crushing leaves when harvesting as they will go black. Store freshly picked leaves in airtight containers, either in the fridge or long term in the freezer.
Top Varieties
Sweet Basil
This is the most popular type of basil available. It has large leaves with a sweet flavour and can be used in a whole range of ways from salads and pesto to sauces and pasta dishes.
Spicy Globe
A basil variety with a slightly spicy tang. Spicy globe is a dwarf basil, also known as 'French' basil. It has compact busy growth and is best suited for small gardens, plus is fantastic for growing in pots!
Thai Basil
This variety is widely used throughout south-east Asia in cuisine dishes and has a spicier flavour than sweet basil, with notes of licorice. It is an attractive plant with narrow leaves on purple stems with a purple flower.
Purple Basil
This stunning purple leaved basil looks great as an ornamental but doubles as an edible, tasty herb. Used in much the same way as sweet basil, the taste is slightly different but equally as delicious. This herb is a great way to add some colour to salads or use as a fantastic garnish.
Holy Basil
Also known as Tulsi, holy basil is a sacred herb from India revered for its medicinal properties. It is also used in cooking or as a herbal tea, and has an intense flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow basil inside?
Yes you can, but make sure it gets full sun, as it will otherwise stretch for light and won't develop large, lush leaves
What is chewing my Basil Leaves?
Your leaves are being eaten by a small green Caterpillar. Spray with Natures Way Organic Citrus, Vege and Ornamental spray.
Will my Basil continue to grow all year round?
No, Basil is a Summer annual, which means it needs to be replanted every year.
