The most popular Basil, essential for authentic Italian cuisine with strong scent and flavour. Easy growing herb for the windowsill or outdoors.

Sow in early spring under glass or on the windowsill. Sow seed thinly, 6mm deep, in trays filled with good compost. When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick out into trays of compost at 5cm apart.

After 4 weeks plant into 15cm pots, one plant per pot and place under protection or in sunny sheltered position outside. Alternatively, transplant into the open ground 25cm apart in a sunny, sheltered position. 15 days after transplanting pinch out growing points of the plants to produce bushy plants.

Serving suggestion - 'Caprese salad'. Layer slices of tomato and mozzarella in a shallow dish, adding a basil leaf between each. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.