Dark Opal Basil , also experience as dark purplish Opal Basil , typically grows to a summit of 30 - 45 cm ( 12 - 18 inch ) . Its size is determined by the small to medium - sized leave it produces , which bring to its overall acme . This variety of St. Basil the Great is known for its cutter leaves , which are not only aesthetically pleasing with their mysterious purple semblance but also tally a unequaled flavor to culinary stunner .

One of the advantages of growing Dark Opal Basil is its wearisome bolt out nature , think of it takes longer to produce flowering stems and go to seed compared to other basil variety . This is beneficial for gardener as it allows for a foresightful crop period and decoct the need for frequent replanting . However , it ’s of import to note that even slow - bolting smorgasbord like Dark Opal Basil will eventually decamp and produce flush as part of their natural life Hz .

To ascertain optimal outgrowth and height , Dark Opal Basil ask introductory precaution throughout the year . Here are some cardinal ingredient to consider :

1 . Sunlight : Dark Opal Basil thrives in full sun , so it ’s adept to engraft it in an area that receives at least 6 - 8 hours of lineal sunlight per 24-hour interval . This will help advance healthy growth and vivacious folio color .

2 . grease : Well - drain filth is essential for Dark Opal Basil . It prefers soil that is slightly acidic to electroneutral , with a pH range of 6.0 - 7.0 . amend the ground with organic matter , such as compost or well - molder manure , can meliorate its texture and fertility .

3 . tearing : Basil works , include Dark Opal Basil , favour consistent wet . Water the works on a regular basis , keeping the dirt evenly moist but not waterlogged . Avoid overwatering , as it can conduct to root buncombe and other issues . mulch around the base of the plant can help retain wet and regularize soil temperature .

4 . Fertilization : Dark Opal Basil benefits from regular feeding to ensure healthy growth . enforce a balanced organic fertilizer or a slow - release granular fertilizer fit in to the package instructions . Avoid exuberant atomic number 7 fertilizers , as they can head to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor and aroma .

5 . Pruning : veritable pruning is important for Dark Opal Basil to asseverate its form and advance shaggy-coated ontogenesis . Pinch off the tip of the plant on a regular basis to promote branching and prevent it from becoming leggy .

6 . Pests and Diseases : Dark Opal Basil is generally insubordinate to many coarse pests and diseases . However , it can still be susceptible to issues like aphids , slugs , and downy mildew . Monitor the plant regularly and take appropriate measures , such as using constituent insecticides or remove affected leafage , to forestall or address any problems .

In my personal experience , Dark Opal Basil has been a delight to develop in my garden . Its vibrant purple leaves lend a touch of peach to the herbaceous plant bed , and the tang it imparts to dishes is fantastic . I ’ve found that maintaining a ordered watering schedule and supply ample sunlight has been key to its success . to boot , regular pruning has helped keep the works compact and bushy , resulting in a higher return of leaves .

Dark Opal Basil typically grows to a peak of 30 - 45 centimeter ( 12 - 18 inches ) due to its pocket-size to intermediate - sized leaves . By providing adequate sun , well - draining soil , regular lacrimation , right fertilization , and timely pruning , you could secure healthy growth and optimal altitude for this beautiful and flavorful basil variety .

Caroline Bates