When summer hits and fresh, ripe tomatoes start to take over our gardens and produce stands, our thoughts naturally turn to the classic accompaniment to them, the beautifully aromatic basil leaf.

Basil is also used as a spice in preparing Italian, and Thai foods. The herb is rich in vitamin K and beta carotene. After maturity, harvesting can continue for many seasons depending on good ...

Traditional sweet basil is the most popular variety, used mostly for cooking. Sow seeds directly into the ground after the danger of frost has passed. Harvest at any time by snipping fresh young ...

Basil is widely available in supermarkets; look for bright green leaves with no hint of wilting or black spotting. Dried basil retains little of the aroma and flavour of fresh basil, so is of ...

Basil is widely available in supermarkets; look for bright green leaves with no hint of wilting or black spotting. Dried basil retains little of the aroma and flavour of fresh basil, so is of ...