Care instructions for Basil 'Sweet'
General Information for Basil 
The details below are the general care instructions for Basil Ocimum basilicum plants - so feel free to update the details below so that everyone can benefit!
How to grow and keep Basil happy
To produce high quality basil, grow it in full sun in warm, well-drained soil.
Pinch or cut the leaves off as required, but always from the top. When the plants begin to produce flowers, pinch those out as soon as possible to encourage more leafy growth. Thin to strongest plants.
If growing Basil in containers or indoor pots then add a small amount of fertiliser every month or so.
Water every week (more often if growing in outdoor containers or indoors).
When watering your Basil make sure to water at the base of the plant avoiding showering the leaves and stems.
How to sow and germinate Basil
Cover with finely sieved compost. Can be planted indoors.
How to transplant Basil
All basils are tender annuals which are easy to grow, but are very susceptible to cold weather. They should be planted in late spring after all danger of frost is past.
How to harvest Basil
Companion plants for Basil
These plants will grow well with Basil:
chamomile, anise
Repellent plants for Basil
These plants will not grow well with Basil so avoid planting these within close proximity:
common rue, sage
Common Basil pests
These pests are known to attack Basil plants:
Common Basil diseases & problems
These problems and diseases are known to effect Basil plants:
How long does Basil take to grow?
These estimates for how long Basil takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world. Start logging and journaling your observations to participate!
When should I sow or plant Basil?
These estimates are relative to your last frost date. Enter your frost dates and we'll calculate your sowing and planting dates for you!

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