Choosing the Right Variety
Basil comes in several varieties. Some of the most popular for beginners include:
Sweet Basil: The classic variety used in Italian cooking.
Genovese Basil: Known for large leaves and strong flavor.
Thai Basil: Has a spicy, anise-like aroma, great for Asian dishes.
Purple Basil: Adds a colorful touch to your garden and kitchen.
Choose the variety you enjoy most or try a few to see which grows best in your environment.
Starting Basil from Seed or Seedlings
You can start basil either by planting seeds or buying young plants from a nursery.
Seeds: Plant basil seeds indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost if you live in cooler climates. Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix. Lightly cover seeds with soil and keep moist.
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