Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Basil and other herbs planted in the top of the strawberry jar.
Seeds can be sown under a row cover or cold frame in late spring, or start seeds indoors anytime.
You should see your seedlings appear in 5 to 10 days if you are starting the seeds in warm soil.
Take special care in hardening off the seedlings you decide to move outdoors, as basil can be sensi-
tive to cold spells.
Basil prefers a sunny spot that is sheltered and plenty of water. In order to preserve the purest flavor
of unique cultivars, you should pinch off the flower spikes as they appear. This will encourage
bushy growth and keep the basil directing its energy toward the leaves.
Of course if you're like me, the summer gets away from you and you suddenly realize your basil has
practically gone to seed. You can cut it back, use the prunings in a salad or soup, and call it good
with no harm done.
Basil grows 18 to 24 inches tall and the glossy leaves are oval shaped with a variety of colors depend-
ing on the cultivar. Basil will need plenty of moisture during periods of high heat. If you grow the
herb in a container, don't let the soil dry out. Start a new set of seeds every few weeks through the
summer so you can harvest successively and enjoy a bounty of basil throughout the year.
Use basil in your favorite pesto recipes—pasta salads or other Italian dishes, and stir-fries or other
Asian-inspired dishes. Freeze or dry your extra basil so you'll have some when it doesn't grow well.
