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Basil - Annual
A tender Summer
plant here. Sow seed in the warmth of spring after the frosts. Shop brought
plants can grow well as long as they are hardened off before planting out. The
growing tips should be pinched out throughout the Summer to keep their shape.
Either harvest completely or bring them inside before the frosts after Summer.
Basil an annual herb belonging to the
mint family has been cultivated for thousands of years and has become an
essential ingredient in many cooking traditions. Native to tropical parts of
Asia, Africa, Central and South America, this easily grown tender leafy herb is
primarily grown for its aromatic leaves which are used fresh or dried to liven
up numerous culinary dishes. It is also known for its purifying and disinfecting
properties. In India,
basil is considered sacred and is cherished in almost every Hindu house. The herb grows up to 2-3 feet tall with
green stems that are usually woody at the base. The common basil has large,
bright green, opposite leaves 2-4 inches long, and tiny purple or white flowers
arranged in flattened whorls which encircle the stems, one
whorl above another. Foliage colours range from pale to deep green, vivid purple
and purple laced with golden yellow depending on the variety. Plants are leafy
and branch freely. There are over 40 known varieties of basil of which Ocimum
basilicum or sweet basil is the most commonly known and grown. In warm, tropical
climates, Basil can be grown as a perennial. Propagation,
Planting and Harvesting
Basil can be easily grown and fast growing too. It grows best in moderately
warm, rich and well-drained moist soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Basil requires a
sunny location which receives at least 6-8 hours of bright light per day and
frequent watering in hot weather. Basil is very tender and sensitive to frost.
It appreciates a good mulch covering over the roots.
Propagation of basil is through
seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground where they are to be
grown. Sow evenly, covering with 1/4" of soil and keep moist and free of
weeds. Germination should take place within 5-7 days. Once seedlings have
developed 2-3 pairs of leaves, they should be thinned or transplanted to stand
6"-12" apart. The soil must be enriched with organic matter before
transplanting. Basil is also ideal for container growing in normal potting
compost. Once the seedlings emerge, place the containers in a sunny, warm
position. Water regularly, always from the base avoiding the leaves and the
stem.
Harvesting can
be by snipping or cutting the
fresh young leaves as they are needed, from the top. Fresh basil are best for
flavour. Handle gently to avoid blackening leaves. If whole stems are
being harvested, cut just above a pair of leaves. New growth will be encouraged
at that point and should be seen within a week's time. Harvest frequently for
increased production.
Basil can be used fresh or dried. Leaves
can be preserved by hanging the foliage upside down in small bunches and air
drying in a warm, dry, well ventilated room for a week or so. Foliage can also
be dried by spreading flat on a drying rack under the same conditions. Once the
basil is thoroughly dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store whole or
chopped in an air tight container away from heat sources and bright light. It
can also be preserved by storing in small plastic bags inside the freezer.
Problems and Care
Few Insects bother basil.
After planting, mulching will be beneficial in retaining soil
moisture and minimizing weeds around the plants during the growing season. Prune
the plant periodically for a bushier growth with more leaves. Pinch off the
flower brackets or else the plant will become woody and less bushier.
BUSH (Annual)
Sow under glass in
February and plant out in sunny position. The clove-scented leaves are used in
salads, cooked cheese dishes and pizzas.
GENOVESE SWEET
(Annual)
A larger plant than
Bush basil. Sowing times and uses as for Bush basil.
RED RUBIN (Annual)
Excellent purple
leaved form. Use to add colour and taste to salads and pasta dishes. Can also be
used as a decorative border plant.
DWARF (Annual)
Very compact habit,
strong flavour. Ideal for planting amongst tomatoes, etc. in grow bags or in a
pot on the windowsill.
SWEET THAI (Annual)
Green leaves, violet
stalks and flowers with a strong scent of aniseed and cloves.
NEOPOLITANA (Annual)
A traditional variety
from Southern Italy. The large frilly leaves are deeply veined and have a
distinctive flavour. |
