Basil, a member of the mint family, is a highly popular culinary herb known for its aromatic leaves. A warm-weather annual, it flourishes in temperatures consistently above 50°F. Unlike many plants, basil is not typically seeded directly into the garden soil. Instead, gardeners often start seeds indoors or transplant small starter plants from a nursery. The most common variety is the sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum, but other types like purple basil, lemon basil, and Thai basil offer a diverse range of flavors for your kitchen.
Ideal Conditions for Planting Basil
Basil thrives in a location receiving 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily, though partial sun is also sufficient. The soil should be moderately fertile, moist, yet well-draining, with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.5). For those planning to cook with basil, it's essential to plant in clean soil, avoid insecticides, and grow them away from pollution sources like driveways and busy streets.
Timing and Technique
To get a head start, begin seeding indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors when the soil is warm, around 70°F, and night temperatures don't drop below 50°F. When sowing seeds directly into the ground, do so at a shallow depth of no more than 1/4 inch, expecting germination within 5 to 7 days. Transplant seedlings or starter plants with a spacing of 10 to 12 inches apart, allowing the basil to reach its mature height of 12 to 24 inches.
Growing, Pruning, and Companion Planting
Maintain soil moisture, particularly in hot areas, by mulching around the plants. Once seedlings produce their first six leaves, prune above the second set to encourage branching and more leaves. Regular pruning and fertilization with a balanced 5-10-5 fertilizer are key. Planting basil near tomatoes is beneficial as they make great garden companions, both in the garden and on the plate.
Varieties of Basil
Different varieties of basil can add unique flavors and colors to your garden. 'Violetto' is a robust purple basil, while 'Fine Nano' is ideal for container growing. 'Siam Queen' is a Thai basil known for its strong licorice flavor. 'Toscano', a lettuce-leaf basil, has large, ruffled leaves and a milder flavor, perfect for sandwiches or salads.
Recipe: Fresh Tomato and Basil Quiche
After enjoying the fruits of your labor, why not try a delicious fresh tomato and basil quiche? This dish is a celebration of your garden's produce, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Crust for a 10-inch quiche pan
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup slivered onion
1 clove garlic, chopped
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil
1 cup evaporated skim milk
1-1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs and 1 egg white
1 cup 1/4-inch-thick slices fresh tomato
Additional basil leaves for garnish
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the quiche pan with crust.
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until slightly browned, then spread over the crust.
Top with cheese and basil. Blend milk, cornstarch, pepper, eggs, and egg white; pour into the crust.
Arrange tomato slices on top and bake for 45 minutes.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil leaves.
