If a person loves herbs, they love basil. It seems to be everyone's
favorite herb and the recipes that take advantage of this fresh and
spicy leaf are endless.
I personally think if you can only grow two plants it should be a pot of
tomatoes and a pot of basil. With these two plants and a few basic
pantry items you can treat yourself to gourmet fare!
Growing Basil
Basil is an annual, and is easily grown from seed. There are over two dozen
types of basil including lettuce-leaf which has large leaves, cinnamon
basil and the purple leafed varieties. Basil is not frost tolerant at all, so be
sure to only plant after the soil has warmed completely.
Though it needs full sun, basil does need more moisture than some herbs,
so keep it watered; especially in pots.
You can bring basil inside as a window herb if you plant the seeds in pots
during warm weather and bring inside to grow in a bright and sunny window
when cold.
Using and Preserving Basil
Basil can be frozen, dried, or preserved in oil and it's delicious
however you choose to preserve it.
Basil is also available year round in most produce sections. Add leaves to
salads or sandwiches along with your lettuce. Add basil to sautés or soups
at the last minute to preserve flavor.
Basil is also wonderful in herbal vinegars. Try mixing it with oregano
and thyme.
