BASIL ‘Thai’ Herb Seeds
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora
- Stunning ornamental and culinary basil with authentic Thai flavour.
- Sweet, anise-clove fragrance with mint and citrus undertones.
- Perfect for Thai curries, stir-fries, salads, and garnishes.
- Striking green-to-purple foliage with pale lavender flowers.
- Highly decorative and productive in garden beds or pots.
- Slow to bolt and heat tolerant when grown in suitable conditions.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Warm season annual, frost tender
- Plant Height: Up to 60 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: Surface sow; press seeds gently into soil without covering heavily
- Position: Full sun preferred; partial shade tolerated in hot climates
- Sow Where: Direct into garden beds or containers, or transplant from seed trays once established
- Soil Type: Fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost; pH 6.0–7.5
- Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; consistent watering improves flavour and yield.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pinch off flower buds to extend leaf production and delay bolting.
- Harvest leaves often to encourage bushier plants and prolonged harvest.
- Grow in containers in cooler climates for easy relocation when nights are cold.
- Apply liquid organic fertiliser every 3–4 weeks during growth period.
- Add Thai Basil leaves at the end of cooking to retain aromatic oils and flavour.
Harvest
Harvest leaves from around 80 days after sowing. Pick young shoots and leaves frequently to maintain continuous production.
When to Sow Thai Basil in Your Climate
| Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Temperate | Spring to early summer | Sow outdoors or indoors year-round in bright, warm spots |
| Cool | Late spring to early summer | Start indoors from late winter for an earlier harvest |
| Subtropical | Spring to early summer | Can also grow year-round indoors or in protected areas |
| Tropical | Autumn to early spring | Avoid sowing during peak wet season |
| Arid | Early spring and late summer | Protect seedlings from extreme heat; grow in mild conditions |
How to Grow Thai Basil as Microgreens
- Do not pre-soak seeds.
- Use approximately 28 grams of seed for a standard 10 x 20″ tray.
- Fill the tray with 3–4 cm of quality potting mix or coco coir. Moisten the soil evenly.
- Sprinkle seeds evenly across the surface and mist lightly with water.
- Cover with a tray lid or blackout dome and place in a dark, well-ventilated space for 4–6 days.
- During germination, water 1–2 times daily to keep the medium moist.
- After germination, remove the cover and move to bright indirect light or gentle direct sun.
- Continue watering as needed to maintain consistent moisture.
Harvest (Microgreens): Ready in approximately 18–30 days. Harvest by cutting 1–2 cm above the soil line with clean scissors or a sharp knife.
Check out this recipe! Click here!