Amazel Basil, an Ocimum hybrid, is a popular variety for home gardeners. Developed for robust growth and flavorful leaves, it offers a reliable option for a consistent harvest.
Key Advantages of Amazel Basil
Amazel Basil is highly resistant to downy mildew, a common disease that devastates basil crops. This resistance ensures healthy, productive plants and a steady supply of fresh leaves throughout the growing season. Unlike other varieties, Amazel Basil is sterile, producing no viable seeds. This redirects the plant’s energy from seed production into developing more leaves, leading to a higher yield and continuous foliage production even after flowering.
Growing Amazel Basil
Amazel Basil thrives with adequate space, light, and consistent moisture.
Planting
The ideal time for planting Amazel Basil outdoors is after the last frost, ensuring soil and air temperatures are consistently warm. While traditional basil can be started from seed indoors, Amazel Basil is typically propagated from cuttings and often purchased as young plants. When transplanting, handle the root ball carefully and place the plant at the same depth it was in its original container.
Light Requirements
Amazel Basil requires ample sunlight to flourish, needing at least six hours of direct sun daily for optimal growth. Full sun promotes vigorous growth and flavorful leaves. In regions with intense afternoon heat, some partial shade might be beneficial, though full sun remains the primary preference.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Amazel Basil, but overwatering should be avoided. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. Watering at the base of the plant, rather than overhead, helps keep the foliage dry, which can deter fungal issues. Plants in containers may require more frequent watering compared to those in the ground due to faster soil drying.
Soil and Nutrients
Amazel Basil performs best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A neutral pH balance is suitable for its growth. While it can adapt to various soil types, incorporating compost when initially planting can provide beneficial nutrients. If the soil is poor, a balanced fertilizer can support healthy development, though overly rich soil may reduce flavor intensity.
Spacing
Proper spacing is important for good air circulation and plant development. When planting Amazel Basil, allow for a spacing of 12 to 18 inches between individual plants. This spacing accommodates its mature size, which can reach 20 to 36 inches in height and 12 to 24 inches in spread. Adequate space prevents overcrowding and promotes healthier growth.
Caring for and Harvesting Amazel Basil
Ongoing care for Amazel Basil focuses on encouraging continuous leaf production and maintaining plant vigor.
Regular pinching is important to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from focusing energy on flowering. Pinching off the central stem when the plant is 4 to 6 inches tall promotes branching, leading to a fuller plant. Even though Amazel Basil is sterile, removing flower buds redirects the plant’s energy into leaf production.
Harvesting can begin within a few weeks after transplanting. To ensure continued production, harvest sprays of leaves by cutting stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches. This technique encourages fresh regrowth and continued production.
Culinary Uses and Preservation
Amazel Basil offers a sweet and aromatic flavor profile, making it a versatile herb in the kitchen. Its taste enhances a wide range of dishes.
The fragrant leaves are excellent in pesto, salads, sauces, and as a garnish for various culinary creations. It pairs well with poultry, fish, potatoes, and vegetables, and can be incorporated into dressings and marinades. The flavor holds up well in cooked dishes, making it suitable for hot applications like rice dishes or stir-fries.
To preserve Amazel Basil’s flavor for extended use, several methods are effective. Freezing is a common approach, either by pureeing the leaves with olive oil to make a paste or by freezing individual leaves in ice cube trays with water or oil. Drying basil is another option, though it yields a less intense flavor than fresh or frozen. Infused oils can also be created, capturing the basil’s essence for later use in cooking.