‘Gold Fields’ is a selection of Genovese basil, the one used for pesto, that is more tolerant of cold weather than traditional varieties. A strong plant with dark green leaves it has all the flavour of older types but can be sown a month or two earlier. Plant seed straight into the garden from November until the end of January. Seeds can be sown under cover a month earlier. Plant seed straight into the garden from November until the end of January. Seeds can be sown under cover a month earlier.
When to sow: November to mid-Summer
Where to sow: 5 or 7.5cm pots or direct sow
Depth to sow: 5mm
Aspect: Full sun or as sunny a spot as possible.
Soil: Prepared, well drained, fertilised soil. Add lime if soil is too acid.
Spacing: Between plants: 30cm Between rows: 40cm
Directions: Plant seed straight into the garden from November until the end of January. Seeds can be sown under cover a month earlier.