Seeds
The classic Italian basil with large, highly aromatic leaves ideal for fresh pesto.
Large Leaf Sweet Basil is a warm-weather favorite that produces tender, cupped leaves with a sweet, slightly spicy, and clove-like aroma. It grows rapidly during the summer months and responds well to frequent harvesting, which encourages a bushier plant. This variety is the ultimate choice for making large batches of pesto, layering in Caprese salads, or finishing pasta dishes.
Light
Grows best in full sun, 6 to 8 hours a day, which also gives the most flavour and essential oils. In peak summer a little afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch, especially in pots.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist, roughly 2.5 cm of water a week, and more often in hot weather or in pots. Water at the base, because wet leaves invite fungal disease, and wilting leaves are the sign it needs a drink.
Humidity
Handles warm, humid air well, which is why it does so nicely in Karachi, but wet foliage brings fungal spots. Water at soil level in the morning and keep plants spaced for airflow.
Temperature
A true heat lover that grows best from about 20 to 35 C, and it keeps going above 35 C when given afternoon shade and regular water. Seed germinates fastest at 24 to 29 C. Sow from March through summer, and protect plants from frost and cold winter nights.
Pets and children
Pet-safe
Soil
Rich, well drained soil that holds a little moisture, with a pH of about 6.0 to 7.0. Mix garden soil with compost or vermicompost and some cocopeat, and make sure the pot or bed drains freely.
Fertilizer
Feed container plants with a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength every 3 to 4 weeks. Avoid heavy phosphorus feeds, which encourage flowering, and pinch off flower buds to keep fresh leaves coming. Large leaf types respond well to regular harvesting, which keeps the plant bushy.
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