Crimson King Basil
Ocimum basilicum. Crimson King is a purple-leaved variety, bred for its uniform leaves and greater vigour than other purple varieties. Sow seed on a warm windowsill indoors, or in a greenhouse, and move plants outside in summer. Harvest leaves regularly and remove flowers to concentrate the plant's energy on leaf production. These tall Genovese plants are also a great addition to a planter, or window box. Approx. 500 seeds/pkg.
Details
Growing Information
Planting:
Basil must have warm conditions, and prefers moist, rich, well-drained soil with pH of 6. Seedlings are slow-growing and delicate. Sow seed, 1⁄8 inches deep, in summer or indoors in late spring. When the seedlings appear, thin the plants to 1 foot apart.
Growing:
Susceptible to frost and cold. Water at mid-day not in the evening; avoid overwatering seedlings to prevent mildew. Harvest leaves every week, pinching terminal buds first to stimulate branching and encourage bushiness. Harvest should be in early autumn before the leaves turn limp and yellow. Cut stalks for drying before the plant comes into flower. Do not hang in bunches, as the leaves will dry too slowly and could mold.