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Basil Seeds, Akoko Mesa
Description
(Ocimum basilicum). One of our favorites in the Baker Creek trial gardens! This plant originated in Ghana, West Africa, where it’s been used in many dishes and medicinal preparations for hundreds of years. This is one of the most common plants seen in every home of the Ghanaian people because of its numerous uses. This variety from Ghana is often used for preparing poultry. The name Akoko Mesa means “chicken dance.”
- 60-75 days to maturity
- 8-12 hours of full sun
- Sprouts in 6-10 days
- Seed Depth: 1/4"
- Plant Spacing: 8-12"
- Ideal Temperature: 70-85 F
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
This unique and aromatic heirloom basil from West Africa thrives in warm climates, requiring 8-12 hours of sun daily. Regular pruning helps prevent flowering and encourages bushy growth, ensuring a longer harvest window. Keep flower spikes picked off in early summer; this will allow the plants to grow more quickly.
When to Grow
Akoko Mesa basil should be grown during the warm season, as it is highly frost-sensitive. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area to get a head start, or sow seeds directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Ideal soil temperatures for germination are between 70-85 F. Refer to your local area’s frost dates to determine the best planting time. If you’re unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’
How to Sow and Plant
To sow Akoko Mesa basil, lightly press the seeds into the soil surface without burying them, as they need light to germinate. Indoors, use a seed-starting mix in trays or pots and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Maintain a temperature of 70-85 F, and seeds will germinate within 6-10 days. When sowing outdoors, choose a sunny, well-draining spot and scatter seeds thinly, spacing plants about 8-12 inches apart once seedlings are established. Basil thrives in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
How to Grow
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as basil prefers moderate watering. Apply a light layer of organic mulch to retain soil moisture and prevent weeds. Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer every 2-4 weeks for healthy, lush growth. Regularly pinch off the tips of stems to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from flowering too early, as flowering can reduce leaf production and flavor.
How to Save
- Flower heads mature progressively from the bottom of the stem to the top.
- When the bottom seed head starts to turn brown, the stem can be cut and allowed to dry away from direct sun in a well-ventilated area.
- Rub dried raceme over a fine wire mesh and winnow off the chaff.
- Place chaff in a bowl and carefully swirl contents around. Seeds will gather at the bottom of the bowl.
- Tip the bowl so that the chaff can be discarded and blow the rest out carefully.
FAQ
What pests can affect Akoko Mesa basil?
Basil may occasionally be affected by aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites. Regularly inspect your plants, and if necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage pests.
Can I grow Akoko Mesa basil indoors?
Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of light. Place it in a sunny window or use grow lights.
How do I prevent my Akoko Mesa basil from flowering too early?
Pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear to encourage the plant to produce more leaves. Regularly harvesting leaves also helps delay flowering.
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