Herb Planters at James Square

Basil Ocimum basilicum

Basil thrives in warm, sunny, dry climates and requires 6 hours of sun a day.

It requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and is very sensitive to frost so is often treated as an annual in cooler regions.

Basil is a good source of nutrients like vitamins A and K, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Regularly pinch off the growing tips to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering, which causes the leaves to turn bitter.

Pesto Recipe

• Pound a clove of garlic in a pestle and mortar with a pinch of sea salt.
• Add a bunch of roughly chopped basil leaves, then bash to a paste.
• Add a handful of pine nuts and pound again, then stir in half the Parmesan.
• Drizzle in enough oil to bind the sauce.
• Add remaining cheese, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

This information was compiled as part of a project funded by TSI Moray’s Health and Wellbeing Fund.