Basil Sweet Genovese

(Ocimum basilicum)

This is an aromatic herb which has many culinary uses, particularly popular in Mediterranean dishes.

When to plant: All year round as required.
How to grow: For direct sowing into the garden bed, sow in drills and thin to 12in (30cm) apart. Basil thrives in a rich, well drained soil and a warm, sheltered position. For potted or indoor growing, sow 0.25in (0.5cm) deep, preferably in separate peat pots to avoid root disturbance. Plant out from late October, spacing 12in (30cm) apart. Sow all year round to grow in pots on the windowsill.
Harvest: All year round as required.