Basil Seed 'Sweet Genovese'
Image © Stephen Shirley Use This Image

Basil Seed 'Sweet Genovese'

Ocimum basilicum 'Sweet Genovese'

Originating from India, Basil has now found popularity in the kitchens of most countries of the world – and rightly so! A popular Mediterranean herb, the Italians could arguably be called the masters of its use.

Used either fresh or dried its warm 'spicy' aroma adds piquancy to any dish. The bright green leaves and stems can be used in anything from salads, to pasta dishes, to infusing in oil, or making that Italian favourite – Pesto. Dried, its flavour becomes slightly more mellow and is perfect for Winter soups and stews.

Whenever cooking with fresh Basil remember it is better torn rather than chopped with a knife – and always add 'just at the last minute' to hot dishes; if using dried add it at the beginning.

Crushed fresh leaves can be held on mouth ulcers, rubbed on warts, acne or insect bites to help speed up healing. Made into a tea it is said to relieve constipation, stomach problems and flatulence. Steeped in hot water to create a steam inhalant it is said to relieve headaches and colds. Infused into massage oil it is recognised as an anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory – so perfect for aches and pains! Medicinal use should be avoided during pregnancy. (As with all plants with purported 'medicinal' benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them for this purpose; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care)

Supplied as a packet of approximately 300 seeds.

Back to Herb Seeds

Back to A World Outside The Classroom

How To Sow & Grow Basil

Basil is best sown where it is to be grown, or if started in a pot or container transplanted as the complete pot rootball – thus avoiding root disturbance.
Direct sow outside either thinly in rows or sparsely in clumps. Lightly cover seed and keep moist.
Basil loves both heat and sun! Early outdoor sowings should be protected with a cloche or similar. Alternatively sow in pots or similar and start off on your windowsill or propagator.

Top Tips
If allowed to Basil will become quite leggy and straggly; to prevent this prune out shoots to keep the plants around 8" (20 cm) tall - and do not allow to flower.
Cut whole stems and hang to dry in a warm place before rubbing between your hands to flake up the leaves that can then be stored in an airtight jar.