Sow seed February to May on the surface of good free-draining, seed compost. Cover with a fine sprinkling of vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination. Keep compost on the dry side at all times, water lightly as seedlings emerge.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm pots and continue to grow on indoors in cooler conditions. Basil can be kept indoors, making a good companion plant for tomatoes and but also planted out. Acclimatise to outside conditions before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm apart. Plant into vegetable borders or containers.

Harvest leaves as required, outdoors May to October, all year round indoors.