Dark Opal Basil – MIg

Description

Dark Opal Basil is a striking heirloom variety prized for its deep purple leaves, pink flowers, and sweet, slightly spicy flavor. Its ornamental beauty and rich aroma make it a favorite for herb gardens, while its tender leaves are excellent for salads, pesto, vinegars, herbal teas, and garnishing dishes. This vigorous variety attracts pollinators and thrives during the UAE’s warm growing season.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Indoors: Start seeds indoors in September or February.
• Outdoors: Direct sow or transplant seedlings from October through March, when temperatures are warm and frost-free.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light & Soil: Plant in a location that receives 6–8 hours of full sun daily. Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
• Depth & Germination: Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep. Germination typically occurs within 5–10 days.
• Spacing: Space plants 25–30 cm apart, with 30–40 cm between rows.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during warm weather.
• Feeding: Apply compost before planting and feed with a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks to encourage continuous leaf production.
• Harvest: Begin harvesting leaves in 35–45 days. Regular harvesting and removing flower buds will encourage bushier plants and higher yields.
• Harvesting Tips: Harvest stems just above a pair of leaves to promote branching and continuous production throughout the season.