Large, tender green leaves offer a sweet, classic basil flavour that enhances a wide range of dishes. A kitchen favourite for fresh use, sweet basil is essential in salads, sauces, and many cooked foods — simple, fragrant, and delicious. Mature Height:18–24 in Spread:12–18 in Suitable Planting Locations:Ideal for herb gardens, containers, raised beds, and vegetable gardens in full sun with well-drained soil. Planting Tip:Most herbs prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil that is not too wet. Aim to plant where herbs receive at least 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. Herbs grow well in most soils but thrive in light, sandy soil enriched with peat moss or leaf mold and a moderate amount of fertilizer. Companion Planting:Basil grows well alongside asparagus, beans, beets, cabbage, chili and bell peppers, eggplant, marigolds, oregano, potatoes, and tomatoes. Tomatoes especially benefit from basil planted nearby, as growing the two together is said to improve the flavour of both crops.
