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BASIL CONDITIONS OF GROWING

Basil is easy to grow in frost-free places, needing only open sun and protection from wind for its brittle stems. Sow the round blue-black seeds in early to late spring, and the strong bright leaves should be through in 4 to 10 days. A light blue gelatinous film forms over the seed when it is touched by moisture before germinating, but the seeds, if kept dry, will keep their viability for many years. The young seedlings are easy to transplant, but keep a watch for snails and slugs. Basil grows quickly, and soon you will have enough leaves to use whenever required. Pinch out the centre stem as the plant grows, and let the side stems grow to keep it bushy. Water in the heat of the day: basil thrives only if its leaves as well as its roots have moisture.

Strictly speaking, both varieties are annuals; but if you live in a warm, frost-free area, you may be able to cut the bushes back hard in late autumn and have them come again the next spring. Try growing basil in a courtyard, it loves the reflected heat from stone or brick: and its perfume will be at its best. In India, it is grown as a true perennial; the frost-free, warm climate of the plains and the abundant water keep it in ideal condition. However, it is so easy to raise from seed and so quick to grow that it is advisable usually to sow fresh seed or buy new plants each spring.

Sweet Basil has large (2 to 2|-inch) leaves, and is most suitable for outdoors. Bush Basil will also grow just as well outside, but its small (i inch) leaves and more compact growth make it an ideal herb to grow in a pot. The Sweet Basil has a slightly stronger flavour, but both are delicious.

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