{"title":"Basil","description":"\u003cp\u003eBasil is the herb of summer cooking: soft, fragrant leaves on a quick, bushy annual that loves heat and hates cold. Frost kills it, so plant after the last frost in the south and through most of the year in the frost free north. Give it sun, rich soil and regular water, and pinch it often. Choose between classic green sweet basil and the red leaved kinds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to choose basil plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/pure-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum\"\u003ePure Italian Basil\u003c\/a\u003e is classic sweet basil, the one for pesto, tomato salads and pasta. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/roman-ruby-basil-ocimum-basilicum\"\u003eRoman Ruby Basil\u003c\/a\u003e is a red leaved basil that adds colour to salads and to the herb bed. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gusto-basil-ocimum-basilicum\"\u003eGusto Basil\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/profusion-basil-ocimum-basilicum\"\u003eProfusion Basil\u003c\/a\u003e are further named selections of the same species, Ocimum basilicum, and are grown in exactly the same way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you cook with basil often, grow several plants. One plant gives a handful of leaves a week. A batch of pesto takes most of a bush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere basil grows\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBasil grows in every Australian climate during the warm season. In cool and mild temperate districts, including Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra and Perth, plant from October or November, once frosts are over and the nights have warmed, and harvest until April. Basil planted into cold soil sits still and often rots. In the subtropics the season runs from September to April. In the frost free tropics basil grows almost all year, and it is easier through the dry season than in the wet. A pot on a warm, sunny windowsill will carry a plant on indoors when it is too cold outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBasil sits naturally with our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/edible-plants\"\u003eedible plants\u003c\/a\u003e and is one of the easy \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003eplants for pots\u003c\/a\u003e on a sunny balcony or step.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and spacing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGive basil at least six hours of sun. In hot inland summers a little afternoon shade stops the leaves scorching. Dig compost through the soil first, because basil is a leafy, hungry plant. Space plants 25 to 30 centimetres apart. In pots, use a container at least 20 centimetres wide for each plant and a good quality potting mix. Basil is a traditional companion for tomatoes, and the two like the same sun, soil and watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCare basics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWater regularly, in the morning and at the base, so the soil stays moist but not sodden. Feed with a liquid fertiliser every fortnight. Start pinching when the plant is about 15 centimetres tall: nip out each tip just above a pair of leaves, and two new shoots will grow from that point. Remove flower buds as soon as they appear. Once basil flowers and sets seed, the leaves become smaller and coarser. Harvest from the top of the plant rather than stripping the lower leaves. In humid weather, space plants for air flow and keep water off the foliage to limit fungal leaf diseases. Protect young plants from snails and slugs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I plant basil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the last frost, when nights are reliably mild: from October or November in the south, September in the subtropics, and most of the year in the frost free north.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is my basil going to flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFlowering is triggered by heat, dry soil and maturity. Pinch out the buds as they form, keep the water up and harvest often to keep leaves coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs basil an annual?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSweet basil is grown as a warm season annual. Cold weather finishes it, and frost kills it outright, so replant each year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow basil indoors?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYes, on a bright windowsill with several hours of direct sun. Without enough light it grows thin and pale.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"gusto-basil-ocimum-basilicum","title":"Gusto™ Basil - Ocimum basilicum 'GB03'","description":"\u003cp\u003eGusto Basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e 'GB03') is a Greek type basil bred by Ozbreed with bold, zesty flavour and a hint of spicy Italian. It grows 35cm to 45cm high and about 40cm wide, and its leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils, so it is quicker to pick and easier to prepare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBold, zesty flavour.\u003c\/strong\u003e A stronger Greek basil with a hint of Italian spice, so it holds its own in cooking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarger leaves.\u003c\/strong\u003e The leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils, which makes harvesting and preparing quicker.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConsistent plants.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is cutting grown for even, strong flavour from plant to plant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHandles cool weather better.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ozbreed lists a high tolerance to cold, which helps at the edges of the season. Like all basil it is still not frost proof.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile in the kitchen.\u003c\/strong\u003e The Italian hint suits tomato dishes and pasta, and the Greek heritage suits Mediterranean cooking generally.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKitchen garden beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 30cm to 40cm apart in full sun to part shade through spring and summer, and into early autumn where the weather stays warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and balconies.\u003c\/strong\u003e A pot of 25cm or more holds one plant and keeps fresh leaves beside the kitchen door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmong tomatoes and vegetables.\u003c\/strong\u003e Basil and tomatoes are natural partners at the table, and a few plants fit easily between vegetable rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn the kitchen.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it for creative cooking, Italian dishes and Greek or wider Mediterranean recipes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Gusto Basil in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to part shade, planted in spring and summer. Basil is a warm season herb. In frosty gardens it is grown as an annual: plant out after the last frost and expect it to finish with the first cold snap, even though this selection copes with cool weather better than most. In frost free gardens it lasts for longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fertile, well drained soil or potting mix suits it. Work compost into the bed before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil moist, but avoid over watering and waterlogged conditions. In spring use a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which grows soft, bland leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning and harvest.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pick regularly from the top, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays bushy. Pinch out flower buds as they appear to keep the leaves coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Gusto Basil in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Stock comes from Ozbreed's licensed growers and is grown to order at times, so a size can show as backorder. Order it and we confirm timing with you before anything ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/edible-plants\"\u003eEdible plants and bush tucker\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/growing-a-successful-fruit-and-vegetable-garden\"\u003eGrowing a successful fruit and vegetable garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that thrive in pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ozbreed\"\u003eSee the full Ozbreed range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow is it different from ordinary basil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a Greek type with a stronger, zestier flavour and a hint of Italian spice, and its leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it perennial?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn frost free gardens it can last more than one season. Where frosts occur, grow it as a summer annual.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 30cm to 40cm apart. It reaches about 40cm wide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":67789648822591,"sku":"OCI-BAS-140MM-P10","price":222.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/gusto-basil-ocimum-basilicum.jpg?v=1792193221"},{"product_id":"profusion-basil-ocimum-basilicum","title":"Profusion™ Basil - Ocimum basilicum 'GB02'","description":"\u003cp\u003eProfusion Basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e 'GB02') is a classic Greek type basil bred by Ozbreed with a medium to strong flavour and a hint of sweet citrus. It grows 20cm to 30cm high and about 30cm wide, with very fine leaves on a compact, bushy plant that suits pots, small beds and window sills in full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA classic Greek flavour with citrus.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stronger than ordinary basil, with a hint of sweet citrus that sets it apart.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine leaves, easy prep.\u003c\/strong\u003e Leaves and stems are softer, so they are easier to chop and need less preparation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact and bushy.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 20cm to 30cm high it fits in small pots and kitchen garden beds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting grown.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plants are grown from cuttings for consistent, strong flavour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlavour enhancing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ozbreed says it has a real flavour enhancing character, so you can have fun creating new dishes with it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKitchen garden beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 25cm to 30cm apart in spring and summer, in full sun to part shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and window sills.\u003c\/strong\u003e The small, bushy habit suits a pot of 20cm or more by a sunny window or back step.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEdging a vegetable bed.\u003c\/strong\u003e A row of compact basil along a bed edge keeps fresh leaves close at hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn the kitchen.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use the soft leaves and stems whole in salads, torn over pizza, or chopped into sauces and dressings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Profusion Basil in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to part shade, planted in spring and summer. Basil is a warm season herb, so in frosty gardens grow it as a summer annual and plant out after the last frost. In frost free gardens it can last more than one season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fertile, well drained soil or potting mix suits it. Work compost into the bed before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil moist, avoiding over watering and waterlogged conditions. In spring, use a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which produces soft, watery leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning and harvest.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pick regularly from the tips, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays bushy. Pinch out flower buds as they appear to keep the leaves coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Profusion Basil in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Stock comes from Ozbreed's licensed growers and is grown to order at times, so a size can show as backorder. Order it and we confirm timing with you before anything ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/edible-plants\"\u003eEdible plants and bush tucker\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/growing-a-successful-fruit-and-vegetable-garden\"\u003eGrowing a successful fruit and vegetable garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that thrive in pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ozbreed\"\u003eSee the full Ozbreed range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does it taste like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA medium to strong, classic Greek basil flavour with a hint of sweet citrus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 25cm to 30cm apart. It reaches about 30cm wide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it come back each year?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly in frost free gardens. Where frosts occur, treat it as a summer annual and replant each spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":67789648953663,"sku":"OCI-BAS-140MM-P10","price":222.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/profusion-basil-ocimum-basilicum.jpg?v=1792193248"},{"product_id":"pure-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum","title":"Pure Italian™ Basil - Ocimum basilicum","description":"\u003cp\u003ePure Italian Basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e) is a classic Italian basil bred by Ozbreed for strong, rich flavour and a beautiful aroma. It grows about 30cm high and 25cm wide, with large, glossy green leaves that are made for tomato dishes, pasta and pesto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrong, rich Italian flavour.\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditional taste with real intensity, which is why it suits tomato sauces and pesto so well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge, glossy leaves.\u003c\/strong\u003e Big leaves are quick to pick and easy to tear over a dish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBeautiful aroma.\u003c\/strong\u003e The scent is part of the pleasure, in the garden as much as the kitchen.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting grown.\u003c\/strong\u003e Cuttings give consistent flavour, plant to plant and dish to dish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 30cm high and 25cm wide it fits a pot, a window box or a gap in the vegetable bed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKitchen garden beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 25cm to 30cm apart in well drained, fertile soil, in full sun to very light shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and window boxes.\u003c\/strong\u003e A pot of 25cm or more holds one plant. Put it where it gets the most sun and you will pick from it daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe pesto patch.\u003c\/strong\u003e For pesto, plant a small block of five or six so you can take leaves from each in turn without stripping any one plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn the kitchen.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ozbreed recommends it for tomato dishes, pastas, bakes, meat dishes, pizza and pesto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Pure Italian Basil in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to very light shade. Plant in late spring or summer, once the soil has warmed. Basil is a warm season herb, so in frosty gardens grow it as a summer annual and plant out after the last frost. In frost free gardens it can last more than a season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Well drained, fertile soil or good potting mix suits it. Work compost into the bed before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil moist, but avoid over watering and waterlogged conditions. In spring, apply a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which grows soft leaves with less flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning and harvest.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pick often from the top, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays compact. Pinch out flower buds as soon as they show, because flowering slows leaf production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Pure Italian Basil in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Stock comes from Ozbreed's licensed growers and is grown to order at times, so a size can show as backorder. Order it and we confirm timing with you before anything ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/edible-plants\"\u003eEdible plants and bush tucker\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/growing-a-successful-fruit-and-vegetable-garden\"\u003eGrowing a successful fruit and vegetable garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that thrive in pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ozbreed\"\u003eSee the full Ozbreed range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat makes it Italian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOzbreed selected it for a strong, rich, classic Italian basil flavour, with large glossy leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 25cm to 30cm apart. It reaches about 25cm wide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn late spring or summer, once the weather is reliably warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":67789649019199,"sku":"OCI-BAS-140MM-P10","price":222.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/pure-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum.jpg?v=1792193258"},{"product_id":"roman-ruby-basil-ocimum-basilicum","title":"Roman Ruby™ Basil - Ocimum basilicum","description":"\u003cp\u003eRoman Ruby Basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e) is a ruby leafed basil bred by Ozbreed with a stronger flavour than other ruby types, so you can add colour, style and full flavour to the kitchen and the garden. It grows about 30cm high and wide, vigorous and well branched, with large, richly coloured leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStronger than other ruby basils.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ruby types are often mild, and this one carries a stronger, classic basil flavour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMore Italian flavour.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ozbreed rates it as more Italian in flavour than other basil types.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge, colourful leaves.\u003c\/strong\u003e The foliage adds colour to a garden bed as well as a plate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVigorous and well branched.\u003c\/strong\u003e A busy habit gives plenty of tips to pick through summer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting grown.\u003c\/strong\u003e Cuttings give strong, consistent flavour from plant to plant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKitchen garden beds.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 25cm to 30cm apart in late spring or summer, in well drained, fertile soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMixed borders.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it as a colourful, edible filler between greens, where the ruby leaves stand out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots.\u003c\/strong\u003e A pot of 25cm or more holds one plant, and looks good on a sunny step.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn the kitchen.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it like ordinary basil, with a touch of colour and stronger flavour. Add it to salads and bakes, make a ruby pesto, or steep leaves in vinegar to colour it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Roman Ruby Basil in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun is best. Plant in late spring or summer, once the soil is warm. Basil is a warm season herb, so in frosty gardens grow it as a summer annual and plant out after the last frost. In frost free gardens it can last more than a season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Well drained, fertile soil or good potting mix suits it. Work compost into the bed before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil moist, but avoid over watering and waterlogged conditions. In spring, apply a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which grows soft, watery leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning and harvest.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pick regularly from the tips, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays full. Pinch out flower buds to keep the leaves coming. Use leaves fresh, or in vinegar and pesto, because heat dulls the ruby colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe list Roman Ruby Basil in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Stock comes from Ozbreed's licensed growers and is grown to order at times, so a size can show as backorder. Order it and we confirm timing with you before anything ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/edible-plants\"\u003eEdible plants and bush tucker\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/growing-a-successful-fruit-and-vegetable-garden\"\u003eGrowing a successful fruit and vegetable garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that thrive in pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ozbreed\"\u003eSee the full Ozbreed range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat can I make with it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse it like normal basil in salads and bakes, make a ruby pesto, or add leaves to vinegar to give it colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes the colour last when cooked?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeat dulls the ruby colour, so use the leaves fresh or in pesto and vinegar where the colour shows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 25cm to 30cm apart. It reaches about 30cm wide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":67789650624831,"sku":"OCI-BAS-140MM-P10","price":222.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/roman-ruby-basil-ocimum-basilicum.jpg?v=1792193284"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/collections\/pure-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum.jpg?v=1794696475","url":"https:\/\/nurserynearme.com.au\/collections\/basil.oembed","provider":"Nursery Near Me","version":"1.0","type":"link"}