Milestones in the historical development
It is very likely that basil cultivation began in India. The herb plant is described in detail in Hindu scriptures that are thousands of years old. To this day, the Indians include the sacred herb in their daily religious rites. The following milestones mark the path from basil to Europe, where legend and fact are mixed up:
- In Egypt, basil wreaths were used as sacred grave goods in 3,500 BC
- the famous physician Hippocrates (460-377 BC) BC) mentions basil in his writings
- the soldiers of Alexander the Great (356 - 323 BC) BC) bring basil from India to southern Europe
- Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) recommends the cultivation of royal herb in the monastery garden
also read
- Basil - a fact sheet about a legendary herb
- How can Thai basil overwinter?
- Plant basil outside for a sun-kissed aroma
Thus, basil already held in the 12th Century moves into Germany. Since then, its central use has changed from a pure medicinal herb to one of the most popular culinary herbs. While its inimitable aroma is undisputed, therapeutic use is now discouraged due to the possibility of it
more carcinogenic Effects.Uncomplicated cultivation
Regardless of its tropical origin, growing basil is straightforward, even in European latitudes. Within the broad spectrum sorts, there are both specimens for the perennial Cultivation in the bed, as well as for the annual culture on the balcony. Anyone who takes the following essential aspects into account can get in touch within a few weeks of the sowing happy about the first harvest:
- Sow behind glass from the beginning of April
- Germination temperature 20 to 25 degrees Celsius
- Germination time 5 to 14 days
- Plant out outdoors from mid-May
- sunny, warm, well sheltered location
- nutrient-rich, fresh and moist soil
The professional care of basil focuses on a balanced supply of water and nutrients. As long as the substrate does not dry out and is fertilized organically every week, the herb plant will thrive. In order to extend the harvest time to its maximum duration, the flowering is prevented by constantly cutting the shoots.
Tips & Tricks
Gourmets never allow fresh basil to be cooked in a warm dish. The unique aromatic content of the leaves is almost completely destroyed by heating. Only in the finale of a preparation does the royal herb come into its own.
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