Basil 'Sweet Thai'

Ocimum basilicum

Authentic Thai basil has a remarkable spicy, anise-like flavor with a hint of clove. Before it became readily available at grocery stores, the only way to get that unique, distinct flavor was to grow it yourself. But it's so easy to grow from seed—why not have it all season long in your garden to peruse as you please? As a lover of Thai food, I can’t imagine ever being without it . . . .

My Aunt Janie introduced me to Thai food when I was a kid. Ever since, my mom and I have been on a quest to replicate authentic Thai flavors in our own kitchen. It’s taken me over 25 years, but I’m finally getting close to a respectable Yum Nua salad.

Growing up in Wisconsin in the '90s, Thai food wasn’t exactly easy to find (nor was Thai basil), and recipes on the internet weren’t a thing. Honestly, the internet back then was more unfamiliar to us than even Thai food. So we did what you did back then: checked out every book we could find at the library.  

In my late 20s, I went back to that same library, hoping to find a Thai shrimp recipe my mom had made years earlier (one I could not find anywhere on the internet). I wasn’t even sure if the book would still be there. Imagine my surprise when I not only found it, but also discovered a family napkin tucked between the pages, still marking the spot for that very recipe. I kid you not, it must have been there for at least a decade.

Thai basil will always be in my garden and Thai recipes close to my heart.

Packet contains approximately 150 seeds.

DETAILS
Plant type: Annual
Days to maturity: 64 days
Light preference: Full sun
Plant spacing: 4-8 inches
Plant height: 16-20 inches
Hybrid status: Open pollinated

How to Grow

Sow indoors 6 weeks before transplanting out after all danger of frost. Basil is very sensitive to cold. May also be direct sown.

Harvest

Harvest once plants have become established. Cut during the coolest parts of the day to avoid wilting. For culinary varieties, harvest before the plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote future growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle with care and do not store at less than 50°F.

SHIPPING

FREE: $100 or more on any seeds
$3.95: 1–9 seed packets
$7.95: 10+ seed packets

FREE: $100 or more on any seeds
$3.95: 1–9 seed packets
$7.95: 10+ seed packets

Once an order has been placed, it cannot be cancelled or combined with another order. If there is an issue or error with your order, please email support@petalbackfarm.com and we'll make it right :)