Basil 'Sweet Green' - Part of the Alan Titchmarsh Collection

Start off in a seed tray indoors. Sow seed on the surface of the compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of dry vermiculite or finely sieved compost. Place the seed and tray in a propagator or seal inside a polythene bag and keep at around 20-25C (68-77F) until the seeds germinate. This will take about 14-21 days. Don’t exclude light as this helps germination.

When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them individually into 7.5cm (3") pots and continue to grow on a windowsill. Acclimatise to cooler conditions by putting the plants outside during the day for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost has past. Plants can be planted out 15-30cm (6-12") apart into vegetable borders or containers.

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.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes etc are delivered at the appropriate time for planting and will be stated on the product page or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a P&P charge of £1.95.
Orders which include any other products will incur a P&P charge of £4.95.
Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products a maximum P&P charge of £6.90 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Please see our Delivery / P&P page for further details and details of any surcharges that may apply to certain destinations.