Basil: Lemonette

Description

Lemonette (lemon basil) really does have a pleasing citrusy scent. The leaves aren’t as robust as the basil that most food gardeners know, and the plants are smaller and more compact. It is, however, a welcome and aromatic addition to your garden, and plate. 

Basil seed is very small and fine so sow carefully in trays or, if you’re feeling brave, in situ. Let the sun do its thing and bring those fragrant leaves to life. Pinch out the new leaves to make the plant bushy.

Eventually, like all basils, the plants will produce pretty pink-white flowers that the bees love – but at the same time the leaves may become less flavourful. To slow the inevitable, remove the flower heads and give your plants a light pruning to encourage the plant to produce new growth for you to enjoy.  As the season comes to an end, the flowers will take over, and this is an opportunity for you to let the plants go to seed. Collect and save for next year. Also take some cuttings in autumn to grow in a pot on a sunny sill through winter.

Did you know? Lemon basil is a popular in Middle Eastern, Indonesian, Philippine and Thai cuisine. It is thus also called Thai lemon basil or Lao basil.