Basil Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Basil Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Basil

Planting Schedule:
Basil can flourish indoors in containers with sufficient lighting all year round. For outdoor cultivation, sow basil seeds in late spring for post-summer solstice garden transplanting or directly sow into warm soil in early summer.

Basil thrives in warm conditions and full sunlight. Its ideal germination temperature is 21°C (70°F); seeds typically sprout within 5-10 days.


Seed Starting:
Plant seeds 1cm (½") deep in a sterile seed-starting mix to prevent damping off. Ensure sprouted seeds receive ample ventilation and bright light. Thin plants to 20-25cm (8-10") apart. Bottom heat can accelerate germination.


Growing:
Opt for rich, well-drained soil. When plants reach 15cm (6") in height, pinch the tips to foster bushy growth. Remove flower buds in mid-summer to encourage leaf production.


Harvesting:
Regular harvesting extends plant vitality. Basil leaves' best flavour peaks just before flowering, making it an ideal time for significant harvesting or pesto preparation. To maintain leaf integrity, tear rather than chop leaves. Incorporate basil into dishes right before serving to maximize flavour.

Though best enjoyed fresh, basil can be dried or frozen in water-filled ice cube trays for long-term use, preserving its fresh taste for up to four months.

Basil Pests & Diseases

Aphids:
These small, sap-sucking insects can cause basil leaves to curl and become distorted.

Encourage beneficial insects, like ladybugs, that prey on aphids. A strong spray of water from a hose can help dislodge aphid populations.

Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be effective treatments if applied promptly at the first sign of infestation. Apply according to product instructions, usually in the cooler part of the day.


Fusarium Wilt:
This soil-borne fungus causes wilting and yellowing of basil leaves, often leading to plant death.

Rotate basil and other garden plants to avoid planting in the same soil year after year. Use disease-free seeds and ensure well-draining soil.

Once a plant is infected with fusarium wilt, there is no cure. To prevent the spread of the fungus, infected plants should be removed, discarded, and not composted.


Slugs & Snails:
These pests eat large holes in basil leaves, especially during wet, humid weather.

Use barriers like copper tape around garden beds, or create traps using beer-filled shallow containers sunk into the ground.

Hand-picking during the evening can help reduce populations. Organic baits can also be effective when used as directed.