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🌱 Sowing & planting basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Sowing depth: approximately 0.3 cm. You can cover the seeds with a thin layer of potting soil if desired. Basil seeds need light to germinate well; a thin layer of potting soil helps prevent drying out.
Sowing distance: 5 cm between seeds, suitable for all pot sizes. Sow two seeds per planting hole and thin them out later to the best plants.
Germination temperature & germination time: 21–29°C (70–85°F). At the right temperature and humidity, the seeds will germinate in about 5–10 days. Germination and sprouting begins as soon as the seeds receive sufficient warmth and moisture.
Planting distance: plant out the entire seed pot. In open ground, leave about 25 cm of space around the plants, or plant them in a large pot.
Plant out: when the plant has 2 true leaves, plant it in a large pot; when the plant has 6 true leaves, plant it outside in the open ground.
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Growth cycle: approximately 125 days.
📅 Growing times throughout the year
Sowing indoors/under glass: You can sow basil on the windowsill in early spring, for example, in March. Sowing basil early extends the harvest period. Ideally, sow in April–May, transplant the pre-sown plants in May–June, and harvest from July through October.
Sowing directly: From mid-May, once the risk of night frost has passed, you can sow basil outdoors in the ground. This can be done until July. Harvesting can then take place from August to October.
🌿 Popular breeds
Dark Opal (red basil): This variety of Ocimum basilicum stands out with its deep purple leaves and decorative appearance. Like other annual basil varieties, Dark Opal has a strong fragrance and intense aroma, making it popular in both the kitchen and the ornamental garden.
Scotch basil : Scotch basil belongs to the classic Ocimum basilicum family and is an annual plant known for its strong fragrance and full flavor. Besides the familiar green varieties, there are also special varieties such as lemon basil, with a fresh, lemony aroma.
Thai basil , an annual variety with a sweet basil flavor, a hint of anise, dark purple stems, and pinkish-lilac flowers. Thai basil is widely used in Asian cuisine.
Thai basil: exotic flavouring
Thai basil, officially known as Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora, is a true flavor enhancer for those who enjoy an exotic touch in their kitchen. This unique basil variety is distinguished by its powerful, spicy aroma with subtle hints of anise, lemon, and mint. It's no wonder Thai basil is indispensable in Asian cuisine, where it's widely used in dishes like pho, curries, and refreshing salads.
What makes Thai basil so unique isn't just its flavor, but also its sturdy, purple stems and decorative lilac flowers. The leaves stay firm, even when heated through soups or stir-fries – ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with fresh basil in both hot and cold dishes. Sprinkle a few finely chopped leaves over a salad, add them to a spicy soup, or use them as a finishing touch on a steaming bowl of noodles: Thai basil elevates any dish.
Looking for something different than the classic Italian basil? Then definitely try this exotic variety. You'll find that Thai basil is not only a flavor enhancer but also a surprising addition to your own basil collection.
