Growing Sweet Basil
Preparation
Sweet Basil thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
For the best results, plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter like aged compost or animal manure.
Preparing your soil is key – weed thoroughly, loosen it, and mix in organic materials before planting.
How to Sow Sweet Basil Seeds
Option 1: Direct Sowing in the Garden
Sow seeds 2mm deep and 30cm apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not wet or dry).
Seeds germinate in 5-10 days at a soil temperature of 18-35°C.
Protect young seedlings from pests, pets, and weather until established.
Option 2: Raising Seedlings Indoors
Fill trays or pots with seed-raising mix or starter pellets.
Sow seeds 2mm deep and water lightly.
Seeds germinate within 5-10 days at 18-35°C.
Transplant seedlings to the garden once they are 5-10cm tall, spacing plants 30cm apart.
Hudstone Pro Tip: For a natural look, use the “scatter seed” method. Roughen the soil, scatter seeds evenly, and lightly cover them with soil.
Caring for Basil Plants
Watering: Check soil moisture by scratching 5cm below the surface. Water deeply when dry, early in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilising: Well-prepared soil may not need extra fertiliser. If desired, use:
Thinning: Thin seedlings to 30cm apart once they’re large enough to handle. This gives each plant space to thrive.
Harvesting Sweet Basil
Basil is ready to harvest in approximately 60-80 days. Pinch off outer leaves as needed, leaving the central growth intact to ensure a continuous supply.
For storage:
Short-term: Store fresh leaves in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge.
Long-term: Freeze whole leaves or chop and freeze them in ice cubes for convenient use.
Troubleshooting Common Basil Problems
Whitefly: Sap-sucking insects that yellow leaves and slow growth. Spray with water or soap spray to remove them.
Slugs and Snails: Night-time feeders that leave slimy trails. Remove by hand, use traps, or encourage natural predators.
Damping Off: A fungal issue causing seedlings to rot. Use fresh potting mix and avoid overwatering.
Bolting: Premature flowering due to heat stress. Water regularly and avoid planting in extreme weather.
Frost Damage: Leaves wilt and blacken in frost. Wait until frost danger has passed to plant, and prune any frost-damaged leaves promptly.
Why Hudstone Seeds?
Eco-friendly: Perfect for growing in gardens or our cotton calico bags.
Versatile: Ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
Delicious: Bring fresh, sweet basil to your kitchen year-round.
Order your Sweet Basil Seeds today and bring vibrant flavour to your garden and your table!
