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Imagine life without pesto. What would it be like? That must be why basil was chosen as Herb of the Year for 2003.
The only hard part about growing basil is selecting the kind you want to grow. In addition to the ordinary large-leaved basil, which is still preferred for pesto, there are scented ones, such as anise, cinnamon, and lemon. 'Siam Queen' has an anise-clove scent. This plant was a 1997 All-America Selections winner. When selecting basil, I prefer the ones that have the most ornamental value. I've use 'Purple Ruffles,' 'Opal,' and 'Red Rubin' in flowerbeds and borders. Their colorful foliage adds so much beauty. When you're choosing ornamental basils don't forget the flowers. Many varieties have very attractive blooms in shades of lilac and purple. Other parts of the basil plants can also lend color to flowerbeds. Some have purple or red stems. The foliage may have purple along the veins or on the undersides. 'Holy' basil is a mixture of red and green. This plant, which can be 1½' in height, is used in salads and other dishes. But it is also a favorite for medicinal purposes. Renee's Garden offers seeds of many kinds of basils. Her 'Windowbox" is one of my favorites for containers. This compact plant is only about eight inches tall. Everything about it is petite. Yet the tiny leaves pack a punch when it comes to flavor. For 2003 Renee's is introducing 'True Thai' basil. Its complex flavor includes a mixture of clove and mint. This variety is particularly ornamental for both the blossoms and stems are purple. If you have a hard time deciding which one to grow, look for Renee's 'Scented Trio' or Thompson & Morgan's The SpiceBoys basil collection. The SpiceBoys include basils of various colors and flavors. So far as their landscape uses are concerned, the sky is the limit for basils. Use 'Windowbox' as an edging plant, and interplant the other ornamental ones in flowerbeds, borders, and containers. They're also ideal for the edible landscape where they can be used as companion plants for colorful lettuces, kale, and Swiss chard. Though basil can add color to a garden, this isn't the extent of its charm. Its fragrance is very welcome. A fragrant garden appeals to our senses. In addition basil can add color, texture, and interesting forms to the landscape. Go To Page: 1 2
The copyright of the article BASIL-HERB OF THE YEAR FOR 2003 in Herbal Landscaping is owned by . Permission to republish BASIL-HERB OF THE YEAR FOR 2003 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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