How to collect Basil seeds

N(caps)o herb garden is complete without some basil plants growing. Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow from seeds. Once you've grown basil, collecting the seeds is very easy, you just need to learn when and how to collect basil seeds. Collecting basil seeds from your favorite variety will ensure you get that same taste and cultivar. Growing different varieties of basil plants will cross pollinate, so it is important to isolate a favorite cultivar by at least 150 feet to reduce the chances of cross-pollination.

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When to Collect Basil Seeds

When you notice in the center of the cluster of basil leaves a small flower beginning to form, let the flowers form. The green flower stalk will emerge, and you’ll soon see white flowers. Enjoy watching the bees sip that delicious basil nectar. Basil plants are pollinated by small flying insects, and bees. 

As the flowers mature, the petals will drop. The carpels that remain attached to the bloom stalks contain the developing seeds. 

These little "pods" dry up and turn brown as the seeds mature.

How to Collect Basil Seeds

When the basil seeds are ready and mature, you can strip the brown carpels from the bloom stem and crumble them between your fingers to release the seeds.

Basil seeds are small, round, and black. If you end up with too many basil seeds, you can give them away to your friends and family, and store the rest to plant next season.

Storing The Seeds

• Place the dried seeds in a glass jar. 
• Put the jar in the freezer for a couple of days to kill any insect pests.
• Label your varieties.
• Always ensure that there is no air in the container and store the seed in a cool, dark place.

Basil seeds that are completely dry and kept in a dry, and dark location should be viable for up to 5 years after collecting.

Collecting your basil seed is an easy, economical way to grow basil year after year!

Watch How to Collect Basil Seeds Video

Happy Organic Gardening!

 🛒 Quality Basil Seeds to Enjoy Growing 🛒

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