Herbs, Basil Italian Large Leaf (Ocimum basilicum)

This variety is sweeter and has less of a clove-like flavour than normal basil. I find it a much pleasanter basil to use in pesto and tomato salads. I never plant basil seed, or plants for that matter, in the open garden before December as cold weather is anathema to this delicious herb.

When to sow: Mid spring to mid-Summer
Where to sow: 5 or 7.5cm pots or direct sow
Depth to sow: 5mm
Aspect: Full sun or as sunny a spot as possible.
Soil:  Prepared, well drained, fertilised soil. Add lime if soil is too acid.
Spacing: Between plants: 30cm Between rows: 40cm
       

Directions:  Plant seed undercover during mid to late spring or in drills in the garden in early summer. We never plant basil seed, or plants for that matter, in the garden before December as cold weather is anathema to this delicious herb.