Oh Sow Simple - Basil Seeds

Oh Sow Simple - Basil Seeds from Fothergills is the perfect choice for anyone looking to grow the best-known variety of sweet basil. This half-hardy annual is easily grown in pots and produces large, flavorful leaves that are essential for making pesto and enhancing salads. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner, this variety is ideal for both indoor and outdoor crops, offering versatility and great taste.For indoor crops, sow the seeds 0.5cm deep in small pots of compost. Water well and place the pots in a warm location, with seedlings typically appearing within 7-14 days. Once they emerge, grow them on in cooler conditions, but avoid cold temperatures. For outdoor crops, sow from March to May, ensuring the plants are gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions (avoiding frost) before planting them 20cm apart. Alternatively, basil plants can be grown on a light windowsill.When sowing outdoors, plant seeds 0.5cm deep directly into finely prepared, watered soil. Thin seedlings to 20cm apart, and for a continuous supply, sow every two to three weeks. Outdoor crops can be harvested starting in June, with fresh basil available for use in various culinary dishes throughout the summer.