Basil Basilicious Velvet-Spice F1 Half-Hardy Annual, 1 Packet x 100Seeds Thompson & Morgan

• The first mildew-resistant purple basil
• Attractive deep purple leaves
• Strong aroma and flavour
• Ideal for growing in pots or edging vegetable beds
• Basil seeds, purple basil seeds, Basilicious Velvet-Spice seeds, Ocimum basilicum seeds, mildew-resistant basil, aromatic herb seeds, half-hardy basil seeds, Thai herb garden, exotic basil seeds

Say goodbye to powdery mildew on your basil! In our warm, wet summers, mildew can frequently damage basil plants, but Basil ‘Basilicious Velvet-Spice’ is the first mildew-resistant purple basil, combining good looks and good health. The compact plants are great for growing in pots and picking fresh off the patio or for edging vegetable beds. The deep purple leaves look fabulous both on the plot and on the plate. Ultimate height: 35cm (14in). Ultimate spread: 20cm (8in). How to Grow Sow basil seed from February to June, or sow throughout the year for indoor cultivation out of season. Sow seed on the surface of free-draining seed compost and cover with a light sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator at 15-25°C (59-77°F) or seal the container inside a polythene bag until germination, which takes 14-21 days. Keep the compost slightly dry at all times, watering very lightly as seedlings emerge. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. When all risk of frost has passed, harden off before planting out in a sheltered sunny position in well-drained, fertile soil, or pot into patio containers, window boxes, or indoors on a windowsill. Water moderately, avoiding splashing the leaves. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage fresh growth, and pinch out any flowers to prolong the harvest period. Basil can be dried, frozen, or added to oils and vinegars for later use. Images shown are for guidance only and show the expected results of plants upon maturity. Different growing conditions might vary results. Image may be included for illustration of supply but can vary due to seasonality changes (e.g., deciduous plants lose leaves in colder months). Decorative pots are not supplied.