Ocimum basilicum
Dwarf basil boasts all the same benefits as regular fresh basil, but is more compact and darn good looking. This herb’s peppery flavour makes it amazing for savoury dishes, and it’s a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Sprouts in: 1 - 2 weeks
Harvest in: 5 - 12 weeks
- Dwarf Basil is not heat sensitive and grows best at 18 - 30 °C / 64 - 86 °F.
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You may start picking leaves in 3 weeks after planting.
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Basil likes to be cut! You can also use basil one leaf at the time, but from the plant’s point of view, pinching off the whole tip is better - it will grow two new sprouts in a week! Cutting and pruning your plant will also delay its flowering. Guide to pruning can be found here.
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If you don’t do that Dwarf Basil still maintains its signature compact growth mode without trimming too.
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When Basil starts to flower, the taste changes - for some people it will be too bitter. It is up to you - if you want to see your Basil flower and produce seeds, don’t cut your plant. If you like to keep using the leaves, cut the plant strongly back.
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But notice, that basil is an annual plant. It does not last forever. If 70 days old basil looks old, well, it is time to replace the pod.
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Dwarf Basil boasts all the same benefits as regular fresh Basil. It is, however, more compact.