Basil cultivation: Information, planting and harvesting in the vegetable garden

Basil is a popular aromatic herb used in many cuisines around the world. This annual plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family and can reach a height of 60-90 cm. Basil leaves are large, sweet and fragrant, and can be used fresh or dried.

 Basil is often associated with Italian cuisine, where it is used in dishes such as pizza and pasta alla Genovese. However, it is also used in many other cuisines, including Thai, Vietnamese...

 Basil can be grown easily in a vegetable garden or on a windowsill, and seeds can be purchased at most garden centers. It is important to plant basil in well-drained soil and prune it regularly to encourage healthy, lush growth. In addition, basil is a very attractive plant for bees and other pollinators, making it a great choice for beekeeping gardens.

 Basil planting can be done from seeds or cuttings. If you plant from seeds, you will need to sow them in pots or in open ground about 20-25 cm before the last expected frost. Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 0.5-1 cm and spaced at least 15 cm apart. Be sure to plant them in well-drained soil and water them regularly to keep the soil moist.

 When the plants reach about 10 to 15 cm in height, you will need to prune them to encourage them to branch. Be sure not to cut more than half the height of the plant, that is, about 5-7.5 cm. It is also important to remove the lower leaves to help prevent rot. Also, be sure not to let the stems intertwine or let them become too thick, which can hinder the growth of the plant.

 Basil harvesting can begin as soon as the plants have reached a height of 15-20 cm. To encourage continued growth, you will need to continue pruning the upper leaves while leaving the lower leaves intact. It is recommended to cut the leaves from above, just above the new pair of leaves that are developing.

 In conclusion, growing basil is a simple task that can be accomplished even by novice gardeners. With a little care and patience, you can harvest an abundance of fresh leaves to flavor your favorite dishes throughout the season. Remember to plant enough basil to meet your culinary needs and prune regularly to encourage continued growth. You can find a complete range of basil seeds in our online store by following this link: https://www.multitanks.com/en/337-basil