Ararat Basil seed packet
- botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
- annual
- height 20-28″
- spacing 4-8″ apart; rows 18″ apart
- full sun tolerant, partial shade
- average soil
- uses in garden: container, cut foliage, very fragrant
- use in salads, on sandwiches, in herbal vinegars, as a beautiful garnish
Ararat Basil’s leaves have a unique bicolor appearance; purple and green mingled together. It still has the classic Basil flavor that can be used in salads, herbal vinegars and as a garnish. The foliage makes an interesting and beautiful filler for bouquets and the plant itself makes a dramatic focal point and contrasting plant in the garden. Click here for great basil recipes!
Having a hard time deciding which variety is right for you? View a summary of all the varieties together.
Basil is an easy herb to grow as long as you observe several important rules:
- Don’t plant it too early in the spring.
- Wait until the night temperatures consistently stay above 50 degrees F. It will tolerate lower temperatures, but it will not thrive and can have real trouble bouncing back from an extended cool period.
- If you notice dark spots forming on the leaves, it may be caused by cold water from the hose. Try watering in the cool of the day to remedy this problem.
Sowing Instructions:
Indoors: sow seed into plug trays or small pots 6-8 weeks before last frost date. Days to germination 5-10 days. When all danger of frost is past, transfer plants outside when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, in a sunny location, spacing 4″-8″ apart, in rows 18″ apart.
Outdoors: Direct sow seed after last frost date and soil is warm. Days to germination: 5-10 days. Thin plants to 4″-8″ apart. 60 days to harvest.
Harvest – light harvesting of leaves may begin after plants have become established. It is best done in the early morning when the temperature is cooler, and the leaves are less likely to wilt. Full harvest should be done just before plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4″-6″ above the ground to promote a second growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle with care. Store Basil above 50 degrees F. after harvest. If exposed to temperatures lower than 50 degrees F, basil can suffer from cold damage. Use a separate cooler space for cut basil, where you can control the temperature, or store in a cool, dark place.
If properly cleaned, basil seed can be stored successfully. First allow seed heads to dry on plants, then remove and collect the seeds. Store in a container in a cool, dry place.
