Herb Basil Thai Siam Queen

Description

Herb Basil Thai Siam Queen

Herb Basil Thai Siam Queen. An improved Thai basil variety with good ornamental potential. A wonderful aromatic oriental herb with beautiful purple-green leaves and a milder flavor than Sweet Basil commonly used in Vietnamese and Thai cooking. It makes an excellent potted herb and can be grown successfully indoors or outdoors. Prefers warm conditions and full sun. Height up to 40cm.

Cultivation Advice 

• Choose well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). Thai Basil Siam Queen thrives in full sunlight, so select a sunny location for optimal growth.
• Start Thai Basil Siam Queen 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 12-18 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 robust plant.
• 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.
• Thai Basil Siam Queen can be grown in 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 Thai Basil Siam Queen indoors for winter. Prune the plant before bringing it indoors and place it in a sunny location.
• Thai Basil Siam Queen benefits from well-enriched soil. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting.
• Maintain a consistent watering schedule to keep the soil evenly moist. However, avoid overwatering, as Thai Basil does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
• Ensure that Thai Basil Siam Queen receives full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. Adequate sunlight is essential for robust growth and intense flavor.
• To extend the harvest season, consider successive plantings every few weeks. This helps ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves for culinary use.
• Similar to other basil varieties, regularly harvest Thai Basil Siam Queen leaves to encourage bushier growth. If flowers appear, pinching them off can redirect energy into leaf production.
• Thai Basil Siam Queen has a distinct anise-clove flavor and is commonly used in Thai dishes. Experiment with using it in curries, stir-fries, soups, and salads.
• Preserve the harvest by drying Thai 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 or using companion planting strategies to deter pests.
• Growing Thai Basil Siam Queen in containers provides flexibility in placement and ensures well-draining soil. Consider placing pots near the kitchen for easy access.
• Thai Basil pairs well with other Thai ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and chili. Explore different culinary combinations to enhance your dishes.