How to Grow Dwarf Greek Basil

  1. Choose the right location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure for optimal growth.
  2. Prepare the soil to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter, and amend it if necessary. Greek Dwarf plants prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
  3. Start Greek Dwarf Basil indoors in pots or directly in the garden. When planting, space seeds 15 - 30sm (6 to 12 inches) apart, depending on the variety.
  4. Watering your Greek Dwarf plant requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
  5. Fertilisation will benefit your herb from regular applications of compost or an all-purpose fertiliser.
  6. Prune regularly to promote bushier growth and help prevent legginess.
  7. Pests and diseases are not common with Greek Dwarf plants. They are relatively hardy and do not often suffer from major pest or disease issues. However, be on the lookout for aphids and powdery mildew and treat promptly if necessary.

Heritage of Dwarf Greek Basil

Greek Dwarf Basil, also known as 'Minimum,' is a type of basil that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is believed to be the smallest variety of basil and generally used in culinary dishes for its intense flavour and aroma. It finds common usage in Greek and Italian cuisine, including dishes like pesto, caprese salad, and tomato sauce. And of course used herb gardens and container gardens. Dwarf Greek Basil possesses high levels of essential oils, which give it a strong, spicy flavor that is slightly peppery and minty.  Like other basil varieties, Greek Dwarf Basil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. In addition to its use as a culinary herb, people utilize Greek Basil in aromatherapy and for producing natural perfumes and soaps
Plant Height 20 - 30 cm (8 - 12 inches)
Season of Interest Spring / Autumn
Temperature Range 15 - 25°C (59 - 77°F)
Annual / Perennial / Biennial Perennial/Annual
Frost Hardy / Tender Frost Tender
Full Sun / Part Sun / Shade Full Sun
Sow Direct / Raise Seedlings Direct / Raise seedlings
Seed Preparation No special preparation required
Sowing Depth 0.5 cm (0.2 inches)
Plant Spacing 15 - 25 cm (6 - 10 inches)
Row Spacing 30 cm (12 inches)
Watering Regular to keep soil moist, not waterlogged
Good Companion Plants Tomatoes,Peppers,Oregano,Lettuce,Marigold,Carrots,Borage
Bad Companion Plants Rue, Sage, Fennel,Cucumber,Rosemary
Pests Aphids, Spider mites, Whiteflies, Slugs and Snails, Cutworms
Diseases Fusarium wilt, Downy mildew, Leaf spot,Root rot,Powdery mildew

BASIL-GREEK - DWARF

$3.50

Placeholder image

More About Direct Compost Solutions

When I started this journey in 2009, I found nothing existed commercially, that was reasonably priced and easy to use. There was a homemade system which I also found was not that user-friendly.

Then a friend of mine told me about a homemade method she used. However, when I tried her method, I found this also didn't suit my needs, as it too had flaws that I considered where important. It did not keep vermin out, did not have a lockable lid and (to me) looked unsightly in the garden.