Garden Herbs and How to grow - Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil, with it's wonderful aroma and flavor, is one of the most popular and widely grown herbs in the world. We associate basil with Italian cooking, so you may be surprised to find that basil originated in the far eastern countries of India, Pakistan and Thailand.

There are so many uses for basil that every herb gardener will want to have a plant or two. It is an attractive plant that works well in vegetable, herb and flower gardens.

Basil also makes a great kitchen windowsill plant and looks great in hanging baskets either alone or in combination with flowers. Basil is striking in containers when combined with nasturtiums, zinnias or marigolds. Place pots of basil around the deck or porch to enjoy the aroma.

Cultivation of Herb
The easiest way to start basil seeds is to sow them directly into the garden. In colder zones, start basil indoors in mid-spring. Seedlings should not be set outdoors until all danger of frost has past and the plant has four true leaves. Plants can also be started from cuttings or rooted suckers.

Once plants are established, pinch out the top to encourage a bushier plant. Frequent harvesting of the outer leaves will prolong the life of the plant. Basil leaves have the best flavor just before the plant flowers, and if you plan to preserve some of your basil or make a big batch of pesto, this is the best time to harvest. You can delay flowering by pinching or clipping off new flower buds.

Culinary Use of Herb
Basil has a warm, resinous, clove-like flavor and fragrance. The flowers and leaves are best used fresh and added only during the last few minutes of cooking. Basil works well in combination with tomatoes. Finely chopped basil stirred into mayonnaise makes a good sauce for fish. Use as a garnish for vegetables, chicken and egg dishes. Large lettuce-leaf basil can be stuffed as you would a grape leaf.

Basil doesn't keep well in the refrigerator. Instead, place the cut stems in water and keep them on the windowsill. Sprigs stored this way will remain fresh a week or more.

Basil doesn't retain its flavor well when dried. Instead, layer basil between sheets of waxed paper and freeze. The leaves will darken when frozen this way, but you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well it will retain aroma and flavor. You can also fill ice cube trays with chopped basil, and then cover with water and freeze. Basil ice cubes are great for soups and stews.

Medicinal Use of Herb
To relieve sore gums, swish out the mouth often with a tea made from eight basil leaves in a cup of boiling water. A basil leaf tucked into the mouth over an ulcer and kept there for as long as possible will ease the pain.

Other Uses of Herb
- Basil in the bath is refreshing.
- Leaves and flowers can be dried for potpourri.
- Burn sprigs of basil on the barbecue to deter mosquitoes.
- A bunch of basil hung over the kitchen window or a pot of basil in the windowsill will deter flies.

Ref : http://www.gardenguides.com