Basil seeds

Common name: Basil Scientific name: Ocimum basilicum Other names: Alhabi - Alraawaz - Waraq Almoshmom - Reihan Alhamam - Bardouj Basil is an annual herbaceous plant that can have a long growing period in regions with mild winters. The height of basil reaches between 30-60 cm, and its width about 40 cm. Its leaves are round and aromatic with a strong scent, usually bright green, but there is another attractive variety with dark red to purple leaves tinged with red called Burbresens. Basil flowers: Their flowers are white or purple, with a fragrant smell, blooming from June to August. Basil seeds: They are small, about 0.2 cm in size, black in color. Basil planting season: Basil is planted in mid-spring, and it can also be cultivated year-round in protected agricultural environments, enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, and where plants receive sufficient sunlight or lighting. Suitable climate and soil for basil cultivation: Basil prefers to grow in soil exposed to sunlight for long periods, but it grows well in areas where the sun shines for only six hours. Additionally, the soil pH (acidity) should be between 6-6.5, which is suitable for most vegetables. It also grows in moist, low-salinity soil, watered regularly. How to plant basil: Ensure the frost wave has ended, which could threaten basil seeds if present. Then, sow the seeds directly into the soil at a uniform depth of about 0.6 cm each. After five to seven days, the seeds will sprout. Once the delicate seedlings develop three or four leaves, they should be separated with a distance of approximately 15 to 30 cm by removing excess seeds. To maintain soil moisture and prevent weeds, cover the soil with a layer 5 to 8 cm thick, made of grass cuttings or straw. Organic fertilizer can be applied at least once. Benefits and uses: It is cultivated for decoration as it is a flowering plant with a fragrant aroma. It is used as a flavor in Eastern and Western dishes. Despite its many benefits, basil seeds are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and essential fats, and contain a high amount of dietary fiber, thus offering significant health benefits. Original homeland of basil: It is believed that basil originates from India or Africa.