Large Leaf Sweet Basil Herb Seeds

Sowing Method

Basil can be either direct sown into its final growing position or raised as seedlings and transplanted.

Raising seedlings is useful in cooler areas because plants can be started under protection before outdoor conditions are warm enough.

For direct sowing:

1. Prepare fertile, well-drained soil.
2. Sow once the danger of frost has passed.
3. Keep the surface consistently moist while the seed germinates.
4. Thin seedlings once several true leaves develop.

For seedling raising:

1. Fill trays or small pots with fine seed-raising mix.
2. Sow shallowly.
3. Keep warm and consistently moist.
4. Provide bright light after germination.
5. Transplant outdoors once plants are established and nights are reliably frost-free.

Sowing Depth

Sow approximately:

2–5mm deep

Cover the seed only lightly with fine soil or seed-raising mix.

Basil seed is small and should not be buried deeply.

Best Sowing Season

For most Australian climates:

Spring to summer, after the risk of frost has passed

Basil is a warm-season herb.

General timing:

• Cool and temperate climates: sow from spring once conditions warm, continuing into early summer.
• Warm temperate and subtropical climates: sow from late winter or spring through summer where frost risk is low.
• Tropical and reliably frost-free climates: sow through much of the year, avoiding periods of extreme heat or excessive wet-season humidity where necessary.

Germination Time

Expect germination in approximately:

5–10 days

Cool conditions can slow germination.

Maintain warmth and consistent moisture without waterlogging the growing medium.

Germination Temperature

Aim for approximately:

20–30°C

Basil germinates particularly well in warm soil, with temperatures in the low-to-mid 20s Celsius generally producing reliable establishment.

Avoid starting seed in cold, wet soil.

Plant Spacing

Allow approximately:

25–30cm between plants

Adequate spacing encourages:

• Bushier plants
• Better airflow
• Easier harvesting
• Reduced competition for light and moisture

If growing several rows, allow approximately 30–45cm between rows.

Position

Grow in:

Full sun with fertile, well-drained soil

Aim for approximately 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

In very hot Australian conditions, some protection from intense late-afternoon sun can be useful, particularly for container plants.

Choose a sheltered location protected from cold winds.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Basil performs poorly if repeatedly allowed to wilt.

For best results:

• Water deeply rather than providing frequent tiny amounts.
• Water the soil rather than repeatedly wetting the foliage.
• Check container-grown plants frequently during hot weather.
• Apply organic mulch around established garden plants to help retain moisture.

Feeding

Basil benefits from reasonably fertile soil.

Before planting, incorporate mature compost or another suitable soil amendment where required.

Container-grown plants may benefit from occasional feeding during active growth, but avoid excessive fertiliser that produces weak, overly soft growth.

Harvesting

Begin light harvesting once plants are well established and have several sets of true leaves.

To encourage bushy growth:

1. Cut or pinch stems just above a pair of leaves.
2. Allow the buds beneath the cut to produce new branches.
3. Continue harvesting regularly throughout the growing season.

Regular picking encourages repeated fresh growth.

Pinching Flowers

If growing primarily for leaves, remove developing flower spikes.

Once flowering accelerates, leaf production can decline and flavour may become stronger.

Allow some flowers to remain if you want the plant to flower or eventually produce seed.

Growing Basil in Pots

Basil performs very well in containers.

Use:

• A pot with good drainage holes
• Quality potting mix
• A warm, sunny location
• Regular watering
• Adequate room for the mature plant

For one well-developed plant, use a container approximately 20–30cm or larger.

Containers dry more quickly than garden beds, particularly during Australian summer weather.

Tips for Best Results

Wait for Warm Weather

Basil is frost sensitive and dislikes cold soil.

Do not rush outdoor sowing in cooler climates.

Keep Seed Shallow

Sow only 2–5mm deep.

Deep sowing can reduce emergence.

Harvest Regularly

Frequent picking encourages branching and produces a fuller plant.

Pinch Growing Tips

Once plants establish several sets of leaves, pinch the central growing tip above a leaf pair.

This encourages lateral shoots and a bushier habit.

Prevent Water Stress

Repeated wilting can reduce growth and encourage premature flowering.

Keep moisture reasonably consistent.

Maintain Airflow

Avoid tightly crowding plants.

Approximately 25–30cm spacing gives mature plants room to branch and helps air circulate through the foliage.

Succession Sow

For a continuous supply of fresh basil, sow smaller batches approximately every 3–4 weeks during suitable warm conditions.

Harvest & Storage

Harvest fresh leaves as required once plants are established.

For the best quality:

• Pick healthy young leaves and stems.
• Harvest before prolonged flowering where possible.
• Use fresh leaves soon after cutting.
• Keep cut stems cool and protected from dehydration.

Fresh basil is sensitive to cold and can darken when stored at very low temperatures.

Leaves can also be preserved by freezing, drying or incorporating them into sauces and pesto.