Sweet Basil- Garden Plant
Grown right on our property, sweet basil thrives in the rich soil and warm sun, offering a fresh, aromatic burst of flavor that’s perfect for any dish. Its vibrant green leaves, with their bold, peppery taste and hints of clove and anise, are harvested at their peak to bring a garden-fresh quality to every meal. Whether in sauces, salads, or garnishes, this homegrown basil brings an unmatched depth of flavor and fragrance to your table.
Growing sweet basil is fairly simple, and it thrives in warm, sunny environments. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you grow your own:
Choose the Right Location
Sunlight- Basil needs at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day, so choose a sunny spot in your garden or place it near a window if growing indoors.
Soil- Well-draining, slightly acidic soil is ideal. If you're planting in the garden, make sure the soil is rich in organic matter. If growing in pots, use a good-quality potting mix.
Planting in the Garden
Space them 12-18 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Watering
Basil likes consistent moisture, but it doesn't like to be waterlogged. Water the plant a the base, not on the leaves, to avoid disease.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be sure the soil drains well, as basil doesn't like to sit in water.
Pruning and Harvesting
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from flowering too early (which can reduce leaf flavor).
Pinch off the top leaves and stems to promote side branching.
Once your basil has several sets of leaves, you can begin harvesting. Pick the leaves regularly to encourage growth. Always leave a few sets of leaves at the top of the plant.