In celebration of our 160th anniversary, Halifax Seed is pleased to offer a limited edition collection of Heritage Seed Packets inspired by the archives of our catalogue. Each of the 9 varieties in this collection have appeared in historical Halifax Seed catalogues as early as 1906. These tried and true favourites are as reliable as ever, and each variety comes in a vintage-inspired seed packet.

Basil is one of the most popular culinary herbs. Leaves are distinctly aromatic and full of flavour. Basil can be added fresh or cooked with veggies, pasta, pizza, and more. Basil is sensitive to cold temperatures and requires warmth to grow, so choose a sunny, warm location in your garden or containers. 0.1g per packet.

Care: Sow indoors 5-6 weeks prior to last frost. Transplant out into the garden after all risk of frost has passed. Water regularly and fertilize when 15cm (6”) tall, then again in mid-summer. Pinch back leaves to encourage bushy growth.

Harvest: Cut stems above small side shoots and use fresh or freeze to save.

Sweet Basil first appeared in the Halifax Seed catalogue in 1906. In our 1926 catalogue, the Sweet Basil description read “The leaves are used for flavoring soups, stews, and highly seasoned dishes.”