Basil

A half-hardy annual that grows to 1ft (30cm) high.

It is fairly delicate and is best grown under glass, grown outdoors; it needs a very hot sunny space.

Sow seeds in spring. Pinching out the flowers as they form will prolong the life of the plant by stopping it going to seed and encouraging fresh young growth.

Pick leaves as required. They can be dried but the flavour tends to be different in dried leaves.

Used in cooking, basil complements tomato and egg dishes. It is used in most Italian recipes.