Growing lemon basil provides devotees with a tangy, nose happy flavor and scent that is excellent in many international and regional cuisines. It is also a pretty plant that adds dimension and texture to the kitchen garden. As an added bonus, lemon basil care is simple, straightforward and easy. Picture silver tinged leaves on an erect, bushy plant with heavenly aroma and the lemon basil plant is the paintbrush to that picture. The fragrant variety is native to India and features prominently in that country’s dishes but translates well to many other recipes. The herb is even great in baked goods and as an accent to cookies, cakes and other sweet treats.
In northern climates, sow seeds indoors at least 6 weeks before the last expected frost for best results when growing lemon basil. Transplant outdoors when soil has warmed and plants have at least two sets of true leaves. Use plastic or organic mulch around the plants to prevent weeds, warm soil and conserve moisture. Lemon basil plants must have full sun in a raised bed, planter or other site with warm soil. Southern gardeners can plant seeds directly out into a prepared bed. Expect germination in 8 to 14 days. The plants tend to be leggy and spindly, but pinching them back when young can help them bush out.
Basil needs average water and is naturally resistant to many pests. However, slugs and snails find the plants snack worthy and should be repelled.