Funny I always think of the next post while writing the current one! non-GMO, organic seeds why it matters?! – Next post topic. Let’s talk Basil! First thing comes to my mind is the smell and aroma of basil. Whether cooking or sitting on a window ledge I love the sweet smell, probably 3rd to lemongrass and mint herbs. A little Basil goes a long way. I’ve planted these amazing seeds, what do you with all of the extra basil that grows?
At the beginning of our farming journey I canned EVERYTHING. I’ve found freezing is easier and saves more space for our family. The perfect recipe for freezing basil, is Pesto! You can add to tomatoes or simply use a fresh basil pesto recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can sub half the basil leaves with baby spinach)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano or Parmesan-Reggiano cheese (about 2 ounces)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (can sub chopped walnuts)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 3 teaspoons)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, more to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more to taste
Skip the cheese if you plan on freezing.
How does your basil grow? You purchased your organic, non-GMO seeds from Davies Family Farm! Thanks!
Flavor: Spicy.
Preparation Ideas: Use in salads, tomato & cheese dishes, soups and omelettes!
Plant Type: Herb
Fill Weight (grams): 0.25
Grows Best In: Full Sun
Days to Germination: 5-10 Days
Days to Maturity: 85 Days
Planting Depth: .25″
Seed Spacing: 10″
Growing Height: 18-24″
Best Container Size: 12″+
Instructions: Start seeds indoors near a sunny window 6 weeks before transplanting to the garden. Or, so in the garden in full sun when the danger of frost is over and the ground is wwarm. Performs best in rows 2 feet apart. Thin if planted outdoors, or transplant if started indoors to 1 plant every 10 inches when plants are a few inches tall.
Suggestions: Remove flower buds to encourage leaf growth. Begin harvesting all but 2-3 leaves at the base of each branch before flowers bloomo. Preserve leaves by drying or freezing.
