Basils in World's End

Sow basil seeds thinly on the surface of moist seed compost in trays or pots. Cover lightly with vermiculite or a fine layer of compost, as they need some light to germinate. Keep at 18–24 °C in a bright spot. Germination takes 7-14 days. Do this 18th March - 1st April.

Once seedlings have their first true leaves, prick them out into individual 7–9 cm pots filled with multi-purpose compost. Handle gently by the leaves to avoid stem damage. Keep in a warm, bright location. This step occurs around 15th April - 22nd April.

When roots fill the small pots, pot on into larger containers (e.g., 12–15 cm pots) to encourage strong growth before transplanting outdoors. Use a well-draining compost mix. This is done 29th April - 6th May.

Gradually acclimate plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before transplanting. Start by placing them outside in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, increasing exposure. Protect from strong winds and cold nights. Harden off 6th May - 13th May.

Plant basil outdoors in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil after all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 25 cm apart. Water in well and consider using cloches or fleece if nights are cool. Transplant 13th May - 27th May.

Water basil regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser to support leafy growth. Start feeding from 3rd June and continue until 13th October.

Regularly pinch out the growing tips and any flower buds to encourage bushy growth and prevent bolting. Harvest leaves from the top down, taking no more than one-third of the plant at a time. Do this from 10th June onwards.

Harvest basil leaves regularly once plants are well-established. Pick in the morning for the best flavour, using scissors or pinching off stems above a leaf pair. Harvest from 4th July until 13th October for continuous supply.