How to Grow Herbs

Basil Plants

Basil plants are best grown from seeds. Plant your seedlings 50cm apart in full sun, in well-dug, well-composted soil.

The best time to harvest the leaves from your Basil plant is when it is at least 15cm high.

As a Kitchen Herb

Basil tastes best when fresh - when it is dried it tends to lose much of its flavour.

You can use it in most dishes from chicken to tomato-based dishes and even with fish!

And don't forget about yummy pesto! I love eating this delicious sauce with pasta and baked potatoes!

Pesto recipe

4 Cups fresh basil leaves

3 garlic cloves

Sea salt

4 tablespoons Walnuts

6 tablespoons of olive oil

4 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese

Pound all the ingredients together in a pestle and mortar, starting with the Basil leaves and garlic. Add the nuts, salt and part of the oil slowly while continuously pounding. Finely add the cheese and the rest of the oil gradually until it forms a smooth paste.

As Medicinal Herb

Basil tea is a great destressor and detoxifier.

Make the tea by adding 1 cup of boiled water to a quarter cup of fresh basil leaves. Let it steep for 5 minutes and sip slowly.

Did you know?:

When you rub Basil leaves on your windowsills and countertops, it will not only freshen the air but also keep the flies away!


If you enjoyed this page, then you may also want to learn how to grow your own

Lavender ,

Thyme ,

Rosemary ,

Parsley ,

Paprika ,

Oregano ,

Sweet Marjoram ,

Mint

and

Chives.

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