Basil
“A man taking basil from a woman will love her always”
FACTS
Origin: Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is native to India and belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It has been cultivated for over 5,000 years and is highly valued in many cuisines around the world.
Varieties: There are numerous basil varieties, each with its distinct flavour and appearance. Some popular types include sweet basil, Thai basil, lemon basil, holy basil (Tulsi), cinnamon basil, and purple basil.
Culinary Uses: Basil is widely used in Mediterranean, Thai, and Italian cuisine. It adds a fresh, aromatic flavour to dishes and is a key ingredient in pesto sauce. Basil is also used in salads, soups, pasta dishes, and even desserts like basil-infused ice cream.
Medicinal Properties: Basil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It contains essential oils, antioxidants, and compounds like eugenol, which possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Basil is also believed to have calming effects and can be used to alleviate stress.
Sacred Herb: In many cultures, basil has religious and symbolic significance. In Hinduism, holy basil (Tulsi) is considered sacred and is often grown in courtyards or near temples. It is believed to have spiritual and medicinal properties.
Insect Repellent: Basil plants have natural insect-repellent properties. Growing basil in your garden can help deter mosquitoes and flies. You can also rub crushed basil leaves on your skin to keep mosquitoes away.
Companion Plant: Basil is a beneficial companion plant for other garden crops. It repels pests like aphids, flies, and beetles while attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Essential Oil: Basil essential oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant. It is used in aromatherapy for its calming and uplifting properties. Basil oil is also used in perfumes, soaps, and as a flavouring agent in food and beverages.
Cultural Significance: Basil has cultural significance in various traditions. In Italy, it is a symbol of love, and in Greece, it is associated with mourning. In some cultures, basil is believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits.
Easy to Grow: Basil is a popular herb for home gardening as it is relatively easy to grow. It thrives in warm climates and prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Basil can be grown from seeds or propagated from cuttings.
Remember, while basil has many culinary and potential health benefits, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or do further research for specific health-related concerns or conditions.
Basil is not only a popular folk remedy for ailments like nausea and bug bites but also widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine and other holistic medicine systems
Because basil is generally used in small quantities, the only substantial nutrient it provides is vitamin K. Basil also supplies plant compounds, which contribute aroma, flavour and health benefits.
GARDENING TIPS
Visit our “How toVisit our “How to use” section to learn how you can apply Biofeed to the basil plants, assisting in the flowering process, feeding and assisting the immune system.
Sunlight and Temperature: Basil plants thrive in warm weather and require ample sunlight to grow and develop their characteristic flavour. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the temperature is consistently above 10°C for optimal growth.
Soil Preparation: Basil prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.5). Before planting, prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or vermicompost. This improves soil fertility, drainage, and moisture retention.
Planting: Basil can be grown from seeds or transplants. If starting from seeds, sow them directly in the garden after the last frost date, as basil is sensitive to cold temperatures. Alternatively, you can start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up.
Spacing: When planting basil, give each plant enough space to grow and spread. Space the plants approximately 20-30 cm apart to allow for good air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.
Watering: Basil requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plants deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Pinching and Pruning: To encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from flowering too soon, regularly pinch back the top pair of leaves or prune the stems. This process, known as "pinching out," promotes branching and ensures a more abundant harvest.
Harvesting: Basil leaves can be harvested once the plant has grown a few sets of true leaves. Harvest by snipping the leaves from the top, just above a leaf node. Regular harvesting promotes new growth and helps the plant produce more leaves. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to maintain its vigour.
Pests and Diseases: Basil is generally resistant to many pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your plants and take appropriate measures, such as using organic pest control methods or providing proper airflow to prevent diseases.
Succession Planting: To enjoy fresh basil throughout the growing season, consider succession planting. Plant new basil seeds or transplants every few weeks to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
Harvesting Seeds: If you allow your basil plants to flower, you can harvest the seeds for future planting. Allow the flowers to dry on the plant, then collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for the next season.
Remember, different basil varieties may have specific care requirements, so it's always a good idea to consult specific instructions for the variety you're growing. Enjoy your basil gardening experience and the flavourful harvest it brings!
RECIPE
“Pesto”
by chef Santiago De Filippo
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts (you can also use walnuts or almonds)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Pulse the mixture a few times to start breaking down the ingredients.
While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor or blender occasionally.
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.
Once the desired consistency and taste are achieved, transfer the pesto to a jar or airtight container.
If you're not using the pesto immediately, you can cover the jar with a thin layer of olive oil to help preserve its vibrant green colour.
Pesto can be used in various ways. It's delicious tossed with cooked pasta, spread on sandwiches, used as a dip, or as a flavourful topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Note: If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more olive oil. Likewise, if you like a stronger garlic flavour, you can add an extra clove. Feel free to adjust the proportions and ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Enjoy your homemade pesto with the fresh and aromatic flavours of basil!