basil 'Greek'
Greek basil seeds or Ocimum minimum
- approx 200 seeds
- £2.89
- available to order from summer
Delivery options
- Seed Packets (only) £2.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, moist but well drained soil
The leaves of Greek basil are smaller than the more commonly available sweet basil, and their flavour is softer and slightly sweeter too, with just a hint of spice. They make excellent pesto and can be used to enhance the flavour of tomato based sauces and pizzas. Compact in habit, it will make a superb plant for a pot, where it will thrive in a warm, sunny spot.
Plant out into the herb garden or into roomy pots or troughs from early summer, after all threat of frost has passed, allowing 15-20cm (6-8in) between plants. Pick plants over regularly (harvest from July to October) and remove any developing flowerheads immediately to prevent bolting (running to seed) and to encourage lots of fresh young leaves.
Sow seeds into pots of free-draining seed compost on a warm, sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse from late spring. (April to early June). Protect seedlings from slugs and cold and keep well-watered as they grow.