Garden herbs

Herb: Basil (Ocimum Basillicum)

Background: Originally from India.

Garden herb type: Half hardy annual.

Growing this herb: Propagation from seed grown in the greenhouse or very warm sheltered place outdoors. Put 2-3 seeds per pot and harden off for planting out in the summer. Plant out 15cm apart and keep well watered but beware of over-watering as the plant can develop disease.

Soil condition and garden position: Plant out in a sunny, sheltered position in light, rich soil. When the plants are established you can pinch out the centres (use the leaves in the kitchen) to encourage bushy growth.

Appearance: Basil has large shiny leaves and white flowers. There are quite a few different varieties of Basil: Lemon, Lime, Lettuce Leaved, Genovese to mention a few.

Uses: Add Basil to butter sauces for fish dishes and use in tomato, egg and mushroom dishes. Basil has a very strong flavour which increases with cooking.

Nurturing herbs is an important part of gardening. Gardening Tools Direct have endeavored to group this information together for your interest. Please also see our garden related products.