Herb Basil Spicy Globe Bush

Description

Herb Basil Spicy Globe Bush

Herb Basil Spicy Globe Bush. A very attractive and the best small leafed variety producing bushy, tight, compact mounds a foot or more across, that keeps its shape all season without pinching. A favourite culinary variety with its strong aroma. Perfect as an edging plant or equally happy in pots & containers. 8-10 ins

Cultivation Advice 

• Choose well-draining, fertile soil for planting. Spicy Globe Bush Basil thrives in full sunlight, so select a sunny location for optimal growth.
• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a seed-starting mix.
• Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden. Space the plants about 6-12 inches apart.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Basil prefers regular watering to maintain healthy growth.
• Use a balanced organic fertilizer or compost when planting. Basil generally doesn’t require heavy feeding, but a boost during the growing season can be beneficial.
• Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage bushier growth. This helps in maintaining a compact and rounded shape for Spicy Globe Bush Basil.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Begin harvesting when the plant is mature and has sufficient foliage. Pinch or cut stems just above a pair of leaves. Regular harvesting encourages continuous growth.
• Basil is a good companion plant for tomatoes and peppers. It may help repel certain pests and enhance the flavor of neighboring plants.
• Spicy Globe Bush Basil is well-suited for containers. Use well-draining potting mix, and ensure the container has drainage holes.
• Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or whiteflies. Use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
• In colder climates, consider bringing potted Spicy Globe Bush Basil indoors for winter. Prune the plant before bringing it indoors and place it in a sunny location.
• Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH for optimal growth. Basil typically thrives in a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
• Water consistently, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings. Basil prefers evenly moist soil.
• Ensure that Spicy Globe Bush Basil receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight promotes compact growth and enhances the spicy flavor of the leaves.
• To ensure a continuous supply of fresh basil, consider planting seeds or seedlings in succession every few weeks throughout the growing season.
• While it’s generally recommended to remove flowers to encourage leaf growth, allowing a few flowers to bloom can attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.
• Spicy Globe Bush Basil has a distinctive peppery flavor, making it an excellent addition to salads, sauces, and dishes where a bold basil flavor is desired.
• Preserve the harvest by drying Spicy Globe Bush Basil leaves. Harvest before the plant flowers for the best flavor. Store dried leaves in a cool, dark place.
• Implement organic pest control methods such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or planting companion plants that deter pests.
• Growing Spicy Globe Bush Basil in containers allows for easy mobility and control over growing conditions. Ensure the container has proper drainage.
• Experiment with pairing Spicy Globe Bush Basil with various dishes. Its unique peppery taste can complement both savory and sweet recipes.