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Basil Seeds & Plants

Basil plants are some of the easiest, most rewarding and most popular herbs to grow in herb gardens, containers and even on a kitchen windowsill. Their aromatic leaves, whether fresh or dried, add flavor to Italian, Thai and other dishes. At Gurney's, we've supplied generations of gardeners with basil seeds and plants. We grow and taste-test a lot of basil in our trial gardens. Our basil seeds for sale and basil plants for sale represent the top varieties for home gardeners.

Basil Seeds & Plants for Sale from Gurney's

Choosing the Right Basil Plant

When selecting basil for growing in the home garden, the first question is whether to buy basil plants or basil seeds. If you are growing just a few basil plants or want to try different basil varieties, then it's often best to buy basil plants online. If you want to grow a lot of basil, then it's more economical to shop for basil seeds for sale. Next, consider what types of basil varieties you'd like. Sweet Basil is the most popular basil for home gardeners. Growing a few different basil varieties allows you to try the subtle difference in basil flavors.

Basil Seeds & Plants: Getting the Most out of Your Purchase

Basil is a tender annual that can be grown throughout most of the country. By following some basic planting and growing instructions, most gardeners can grow flavorful basil plants.

Where to Plant & Grow Basil

Basil plants should be planted in well-drained soil and in full sun (six or more hours of direct sunlight daily). Basil seeds for planting also need direct sunlight or a grow light and well-drained soil, such as potting soil.

When to Plant Basil Seeds?

If starting basil seeds indoors, the seeds can be sown about 6 weeks before the last spring frost date for your region. If direct sowing basil seeds into the garden, wait until after the danger of spring frost has passed.

How to Plant Basil Seeds?

Basil seeds should be planted at a depth of ¼ inch in loose, well-drained soil. Water the seeds after planting. Basil seeds usually germinate in 5-7 days.

How to Grow & Maintain Basil?

Mature basil plants should be spaced about 12-18 inches apart in the garden. Mulching around the basil plants retains moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds. Basil plants in the garden need about an inch of water weekly. Basil plants in containers need more frequent watering. Pruning basil plants throughout the growing season keeps the plants productive. If basil forms seed heads or flowers, the plant becomes woody and the yield becomes less. It also leads to more bitter leaves.

How to Harvest & Use Basil?

Basil plants can be harvested throughout the growing season. Just snip a few fresh leaves when needed. If you want more basil, harvest whole stems, making the cut just above a pair of leaves. While basil can be dried and frozen, it's most flavorful when used fresh. Make into pesto or use it to flavor Italian dishes, Thai food, soups and vegetables. Fresh basil is wonderful when paired with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
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