Basil is a top choice for both garden and kitchen. This "king of herbs" comes in more than 30 varieties, with leaves ranging from bright green to deep purple and distinctive flavor notes of cinnamon, lemon, or licorice.
Basil Basics
Basil hails from the warm, tropical regions of Asia, so it thrives in plenty of sunshine. Many gardeners place it with their tomatoes--the two plants require similar growing conditions and, when harvested, make a great-tasting combination.
You can even plant basil along side your sun-loving flowers. Pretty varieties like Purple Ruffles look right at home with zinnias or marigolds.
- Space plants 1 foot apart. Depending on the variety, they grow to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
- Pinch off tips and blooms as they appear to promote a bushy plant and extend the growing season.
Presto! Pesto!
With your own crop of fresh basil, you'll always have plenty on hand for making homemade pesto. Try this simple recipe:
- Combine 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped basil in a blender or food processor with 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 4 minced garlic cloves. Process the mixture until smooth, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides.
- Pesto can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. Spoon it into ice cube trays, and then pop the cubes into a resealable plastic bag or freezer container.
- Use this savory sauce instead of marinara on pasta, slather it on crusty bread, or use it in place of pizza sauce for a bold and flavorful pie topped with a variety of roasted vegetables. You might never eat pizza with "red sauce" again!
Contact your local garden center or horticulture extension office to find out what grows best in your own backyard.
From Backyard Living magazine. Subscribe to this and other publications here.
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