HERB ‘Lemon Basil’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Ocimum americanum
Synonyms: Hoary Basil, Thai Lemon Basil
- Fragrant herb with a fresh lemon aroma and flavour—ideal for teas, salads, curries, and desserts.
- Produces lush, bushy plants with soft green leaves and small white flowers that attract pollinators.
- Heat-tolerant and slow to bolt; highly productive with excellent disease resistance.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Warm season annual; frost sensitive
- Plant Height: Up to 60 cm at maturity
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days at 18–25°C
- Depth: Sow seeds 2–3 mm deep
- Position: Full sun for optimal flavour and growth
- Sow Where: Direct sow or start indoors and transplant when plants have 4–6 true leaves
- Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil with pH 6.0–7.5, enriched with compost
- Spacing: 25–30 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Keep soil evenly moist—avoid soggy conditions.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pinch out flower buds to promote leaf production.
- Harvest leaves regularly for best flavour and continual regrowth.
- In cooler climates, grow in containers to protect from unexpected frost.
- Feed every 3–4 weeks with liquid fertiliser for lush, fragrant growth.
Harvest
Begin harvesting leaves 60–70 days after sowing. Regular picking encourages more foliage.
Growing Instructions (Microgreens)
- Do not pre-soak seeds before sowing.
- Use approximately 10 grams of seed per 30 x 35 cm tray.
- Fill tray with 2–3 cm of moist potting mix or coco coir.
- Evenly scatter seeds on the surface and mist lightly.
- Cover with a lid or board and keep in a dark, well-ventilated space for 4–6 days.
- Mist daily to keep the surface moist during germination.
- After sprouting, move to indirect sunlight and continue watering as needed.
Harvest (Microgreens): 10–15 days after sowing. Cut 1–2 cm above the soil using clean scissors or a sharp knife.
When to Sow Lemon Basil in Your Region (NZ Gardeners)
| Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (Auckland, Northland, Bay of Plenty) | September to February | Sow directly or transplant once warm. Avoid overwatering during wet spells. |
| North Island – Lower (Waikato, Hawke’s Bay, Wellington) | October to January | Start indoors for early crops. Best grown in full sun with drainage. |
| South Island – Upper (Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast) | October to December | Protect from cool nights. Use pots if early frosts are likely. |
| South Island – Lower (Canterbury, Otago, Southland) | November to January | Start seeds indoors and transplant in late spring. Use cloche or cold frame if needed. |
