Basil
(Ocimum family) Basil is native to the tropical regions of central Africa and Southeast Asia. The heat-loving, frost-sensitive plants are typically grown as annuals and thrive in full sun. Direct sow in place, ¼ inch deep, in long-summer areas, or start seedlings 4-6 weeks before last frost indoors and set out after the last-frost date of spring. Ideal germination temperature is 68-75 F. Sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep and keep reasonably moist until seedlings emerge. Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days. Set out seedlings at any size, when warm conditions have arrived, spacing plants 8-12 inches apart, and grow in full sun. For leafy culinary type varieties, remove flower buds promptly to prolong harvest. Flowering types can be allowed to bloom. Their flowers are edible and irresistable to beneficial insects. Sow a few sucessions of basil for consistently high-quality harvests/ Try growing this fragrant and flavorful herb alongside your tomato plants!
