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Basil

Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
Hardiness
Annual
Height
1 to 2 feet
Width
1 to 2 feet
Flowers
Mid summer: not effective
Light
Full sun
Soil
Moist, well-drained
Planting & Care
  • Basil seeds germinate in temperatures between 55 F to 60 F
  • Transplants should be hardened off before setting out in the garden. Plant only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 70 F.
  • Space plants 12 inches apart
  • Provide even, consistent moisture for best performance
  • Mulch the soil around the plants to suppress weeds and conserve moisture
  • Prune plants regularly for a fuller, more compact habit. Remove any developing flowers as soon as they appear.
  • Can be overwintered indoors
Problems
Slugs, snails
Varieties
  • Purple Ruffles - 1987 AAS winner; leaves are ruffled and serrated, glossy purple, 18-24"
  • Green Bouquet - lime green foliage, compact
  • Citriodorum - Lemon Basil, white flowers, lemon scented leaves, 12"

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