Basil is a versatile and aromatic herb, cherished in cuisines worldwide for its distinctive flavour and fragrance. Whether you’re a commercial grower or home gardener there is a basil variety perfect for you! Growing basil at home ensures a fresh supply of fresh leaves while adding lush greenery to your garden or kitchen space.
For Commercial Growers:
We’re excited to introduce new mildew-tolerant basil varieties designed for unmatched vigour, yield, and adaptability - ideal for professional growers. Contact us at orders@ausallium.com for more details on these exclusive varieties.
For microgreen production tips, check out this post.
Common Varieties
Basil Genovese
One of the most popular basil varieties, Genovese Basil has large, rich green leaves with a bold, classic basil flavour. It is compact, highly vigorous, and ideal for both home and commercial growers.
Purple Basil
With striking purple leaves and a sweet, fragrant aroma, Purple Basil adds a splash of colour to any dish. Beyond its culinary uses, it also boasts health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and soothing skin - making it a great choice for health-conscious gardeners.
Basil Mildew Tolerant
Perfect for hydroponic or greenhouse cultivation, hybrid basil offers enhanced disease resistance and robust growing in various conditions. It has exceptional vigour and yield. If you need a basil variety suited for commercial production in diverse growing conditions, contact us at orders@ausallium.com to find the best fit for your needs.
What You’ll Need
- Seeds: Use high-germination seeds from trusted sources like Ausallium for best results.
- Growing Medium: Use a well-draining soil, hemp felt, coconut coir or another suitable medium.
- Light Source: Basil grows best in direct sunlight or under grow lights.
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Water: A watering can or spray bottle to keep the medium consistently moist.
Growing Guide
Step 1: Sowing
Plant basil in a well-lit area with a well-draining, fertile medium. You can sow seeds in small pots and transplant them once the plants are mature, or you can directly sow the seeds into your container or garden. Plant the seeds approximately 3mm deep, spacing them around 30cm apart to allow for mature plant growth.
Step 2: Germination
Basil seeds will typically germinate within 5 - 14 days. At this early stage, they can already be harvested as microgreens - perfect for enhancing dishes with fresh, aromatic greens! Check out our Basil Microgreen blog for more details.
Step 3: Care and Maintenance
Basil thrives in the full sun, they require at least 6-8 hours of light per day. Maintain consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering to reduce the risk of fungal disease. Applying a balanced fertiliser will encourage healthy growth.
Step 4: Harvesting
Once your basil plants reach around 15cm in height (usually 60-80 days after sowing), you can start harvesting. For continued growth, pinch off the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to mature.
Avoiding Common Growing Issues
Here are some troubleshooting tips for issues you may encounter growing basil:
- Pests: White flies, slugs and aphids can damage Basil plants. Check leaves regularly and use pest control measures when needed.
- Dampening Off: Overwatering and poor air circulation can lead to fungal issues. Ensure soil drains well and avoid excessive moisture.
- Bolting: Extreme weather and insufficient water can cause basil to flower prematurely. Sow seeds after hot weather has passed and water consistently.
- Frost Damage: Basil is sensitive to cold temperatures. Plant only after the risk of frost has passed and harvest before winter.
Storing Seeds
Proper seed storage helps maintain viability for future planting:
- Cool and Dry: Store away from heat and sunlight.
- Airtight containers: Use a sealed jar or bag to prevent moisture exposure.
- Label: Mark the container with the basil variety and storage date for easy tracking.
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Moisture Prevention: If in a humid climate, add silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
Uses
Basil is a staple ingredient in many dishes and is much more than a garnish. Basil can be used in:
- Pesto: Blend fresh basil leaves with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a delicious sauce.
- Salads: Add fresh basil to caprese salad, green salads, or pasta dishes for an aromatic touch.
- Infused Oils: Preserve basil’s flavour by infusing it into olive oil or vinegar.
- Herbal Teas: Steep fresh or dried basil leaves in hot water for a refreshing tea with digestive benefits.
- Soups and Sauces: Use basil to enhance tomato sauces, soups, and stir-fries.
Final Thoughts:
Growing basil at home is easy, rewarding, and delicious—whether you're a commercial grower or a beginner. With the right care, you can enjoy fresh, aromatic basil year-round!
Get all your premium basil seeds from Ausallium today and start growing your own delicious and aromatic herbs!
