Basil is a handy herb to have growing in the garden. You can knock up a pesto sauce at a moment’s notice, toss it through some pasta, and be eating dinner 15 minutes after walking in the door.
| Mr Fothergill’s (seed) |
Basil ‘Sweet Genovese’. This is an aromatic herb which has many culinary uses, and is particularly popular in Mediterranean dishes.
An annual, growing up to 38-40cm tall. It is a useful border plant and grows well in pots or tubs.
Sowing: during Spring in final position 5mm deep, spaced 30cm apart. Keep moist. Sow all year round if growing in pots on the windowsill. Basil thrives in a rich, well drained soil and a warm sheltered position.
Harvesting: pick the leaves as required, basil is best used fresh. Pinching out the tip of the main stem will encourage bushy growth or prevent the plants from flowering to prolong picking.
Culinary: the leaves impart a mild aniseed-clove flavour to salads, soups and omelettes and are delicious with tomatoes. Only add basil at the last minute when cooking or the flavour will be lost.
18 Nov 2001: The seeds are just starting to sprout. They should be ready to plant out in the garden within a few weeks.