Herb Basil Devotion

At last! A delicious, downy mildew-resistant basil that you can grow almost anywhere indoors on the windowsill, in the greenhouse or in the garden! Devotion is a Sweet Basil with large, green, cupped leaves that emit a sensational spicy aroma. ‘Devotion’ is a versatile variety and is the result of years of work at Rutgers University in New York and is a huge step forward in Genovese-type basil breeding, creating a downy mildew-resistant variety that is also compact and highly productive. This common basil is ideal for use in home cooking use the leaves and edible white flowers fresh in salads and as a garnish or cook the leaves in sauces and soups. Height: 45cm (18″). Spread: 30cm (12″).

Sowing

Sow basil seed from February to June, or sow throughout the year for indoor cultivation out of season. Sow seed on the surface of free draining seed compost and cover with a light sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator at a temperature of 15-25C (59-77F) or seal the container inside a polythene bag until after germination, which takes 14-21 days. Keep the compost slightly dry at all times, watering very lightly as seedlings emerge. When they are large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow basil plants on in cooler conditions.

More Info

When all risk of frost has passed, harden basil plants off before planting out in a sheltered sunny position in well drained, fertile sandy soil; or potting into patio containers, window boxes, or windowsill pots indoors. Water moderately taking care to avoid splashing the leaves. Harvest basil leaves regularly when required to promote fresh new growth and pinch out any flowers that appear to prolong the harvest period. Culinary note: Basil can be dried or frozen for using later on, or added to oils and vinegars for extra flavour.