- A must in Italian cooking
- Unique mix of flavors
- Easy to grow
One of the most popular herbs used for cooking, Sweet Basil bears large, 2-in., dark green leaves that are packed with flavor and a sweet, spicy fragrance. Sweet Basil prefers warm weather and is grown as an annual in most parts of the country. Single leaves can be cut just about any time. If cutting whole stems, make the cut above a pair of leaves. This helps new growth continue and preserves the plant for future use. Sweet Basil can be grown in the herb garden or patio pots. Many gardeners like to grow it near the kitchen because it's easy to step outside and snip a few leaves. It can be used fresh or dried.