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Basil Seeds
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[Ocimum basilicum] Basil seeds, the queen of Mediterranean aromatic herbs: fragrant leaves perfect for pesto, sauces and salads, easy to grow in pots or open ground.
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More info
- Basil Seeds
- The Basil plant
- How to sow Basil
- How to grow Basil
- Tips for growing Basil
- Diseases and pests of Basil
- Properties of Basil
- Nutritional values of Basil (per 100 g)
Basil Seeds
Basil, botanically known as Ocimum basilicum, is without doubt the most beloved and widely grown aromatic herb in Italy. Native to the tropical regions of Asia, this herbaceous plant of the Lamiaceae family has conquered kitchens all over the world thanks to its intense, unmistakable fragrance. The name comes from the Greek basilikon phyton, meaning royal plant, a tribute to the importance this herb has always held in Mediterranean history and tradition. Growing it from seed is simple, fast and rewarding, perfect even for those with limited space.
The Basil plant
It is an annual herbaceous plant that can reach a height of 40 to 60 centimeters, with a bushy, branching habit. The leaves are oval, glossy, bright green in the most common variety (Genovese basil), although more than 60 different cultivars exist, varying in shape, color and aroma: from ruffled-leaf basil to small-leaved Greek basil, to purple varieties with a spicier flavor. The white or pinkish flowers, gathered in small spikes, typically appear between July and September.
The leaves contain an essential oil rich in volatile aromatic compounds, responsible for the characteristic scent that fades quickly once the plant is dried: for this reason basil is best enjoyed fresh, picked straight from the garden or balcony.
How to sow Basil
Sowing is best done between April and June, once nighttime temperatures no longer drop below 10-12 degrees Celsius, as basil is very sensitive to cold. Seeds should be buried at a minimal depth, about half a centimeter, in soft, well-drained soil kept consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-14 days. Sowing can be done directly in open ground or in pots, or in seed trays for later transplanting once the seedlings develop their first true leaves.
How to grow Basil
Basil prefers soft, organically rich, well-drained soil, positioned in full sun or partial shade during the hottest summer hours. A spacing of about 20-25 centimeters between plants is recommended to ensure good air circulation. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil fresh but never soggy, carefully avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent fungal rot.
To prolong leaf production and delay flowering, it is advisable to regularly pinch off the growing tips and remove flowers as soon as they appear. Light feeding every 2-3 weeks with an organic or herb-specific fertilizer supports vigorous growth throughout the summer season.
Tips for growing Basil
In pots, basil grows wonderfully on a balcony or kitchen windowsill, as long as it receives at least 5-6 hours of direct light per day. Choose containers with drainage holes and repot seedlings once the roots become too crowded. In open ground it pairs excellently with tomatoes, sharing great growing compatibility and naturally helping to repel certain insects.
Diseases and pests of Basil
The main enemies of basil are slugs and snails, fond of the tender leaves, and aphids, which colonize the youngest shoots. Excessive watering or waterlogging can encourage root rot and the dreaded downy mildew, a fungus that leaves yellow and grey spots on the leaves: proper drainage and adequate spacing between plants to promote airflow are essential for prevention.
Properties of Basil
Beyond its culinary use, basil is known for digestive, calming and mildly stimulating properties on the nervous system, traditionally used against mental fatigue and stress. The essential oils in its leaves also have mild antibacterial properties. In medieval times it was considered an almost magical plant, the subject of contrasting legends: in some cultures a symbol of love and prosperity, in others mistakenly linked to negative superstitions.
Nutritional values of Basil (per 100 g)
- Calories: 23 kcal
- Protein: 3.2 g
- Fat: 0.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 2.7 g
- Fiber: 1.6 g
- Vitamin C: 18 mg
- Potassium: 295 mg