Basil Seed Collection – 6 Individually Packed Varieties

How to Grow Your Basil Seed Collection

Basil loves warmth and is ideal for growing in pots, containers, greenhouses, sunny windowsills or a sheltered position outdoors. All six varieties can be grown using broadly the same method.

🌱 Sowing Basil Seeds

Indoor sowing: March to July Outdoor sowing: Late April to July, once conditions are reliably warm Germination temperature: Approximately 18–24°C Germination: Usually 5–14 days Sow seeds approximately 0.5 cm deep into trays, modules or small pots filled with moist, free-draining seed compost. Cover lightly with compost or vermiculite and keep warm. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged while the seeds germinate. For a continuous supply of young basil, additional small sowings can be made every few weeks during spring and summer.

🌿 Growing On

Once seedlings have developed 2–4 true leaves, transplant them individually or into larger containers. Basil grows best in fertile, well-drained soil or good-quality multipurpose compost. For larger plants, allow approximately 20–30 cm between plants. Plants intended for regular harvesting can be grown somewhat closer together. Outdoor plants should only be moved outside once the risk of frost has passed. Harden indoor-raised plants off gradually before planting them permanently outdoors.

☀️ Position

Choose a warm, sunny and sheltered position. Basil appreciates plenty of light but dislikes cold conditions and strong winds. Container-grown basil can be moved into a greenhouse, conservatory or indoors when temperatures begin to fall.

💧 Watering

Keep the compost or soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Container-grown plants can dry out particularly quickly during warm weather and may require frequent watering. Where possible, water around the base of the plant rather than repeatedly soaking the foliage.

🌱 Feeding

Plants grown in fertile soil generally need little additional feeding initially. Container-grown plants can be given a balanced liquid feed every 2–3 weeks once actively growing. Avoid excessive feeding, particularly with high-nitrogen fertilisers.

🐛 Pest Protection

Check plants regularly for aphids, whitefly and slugs or snails. Good airflow around plants and avoiding overcrowding will help keep plants healthy. Young outdoor basil plants are particularly attractive to slugs and snails, so protect them where necessary.

✂️ Pinching & Harvesting

Begin harvesting once plants are well established, usually when they reach approximately 15–20 cm tall. Pinch or cut shoots immediately above a pair of leaves. This encourages the plant to branch and develop a bushier habit rather than producing a single tall stem. Harvest little and often throughout the growing season for the best supply of tender, aromatic foliage.

🌸 Flowers

Remove developing flower spikes if your priority is continued leaf production. Alternatively, allow some plants to flower – basil flowers are attractive and popular with pollinating insects.

🍃 Harvest

Fresh basil leaves are generally best harvested shortly before use. Pick individual leaves or cut complete growing tips as required. Regular harvesting throughout summer encourages further growth and can provide a generous supply of fresh basil from a relatively small number of plants. SOW • GROW • HARVEST