Wild Basil

In the midst of re-making my herbs gardens I realise that
i can do nothing but leave my wild basil where it is for now.
The clump of bushes - originally planted from seed found on the Zambezi flood plane at RIFA has taken hold in a bed with indigenous trees and acts as a good cover for the bore hole. It always seems to be green and can be used as either a culinary herb or a medicinal herb.
Used in casseroles and stews it is slightly stronger than most forms of culinary basil. it has fury leaves and the seeds are brown and dry very quickly. They fall and reseed the bed naturally and need no care except for a little water during the dry season.

The branches can be thrown under tables to make a natural fly and mosquito repellent at a luncheon or supper outdoors party.

The seeds can be taken in the hands - rubbed to release their aroma and are a welcome relief to someone suffering hay fever when out on a bush walk.

This variety is Zulu Basil.

Seedlings and herbs galore!

Yesterday went and bought a mass of vegetable seedlings, seed, and herb plants. It looks like the vegetable garden is getting into full swing.

I am redesigning my herb garden and have most of the basics I need to get it started again. i fancy an informal design to fit with the rest of our garden

And we are holding a course on making compost and another on herb gardening - so this will really give the garden a boost! We are growing both traditional and indigenous herbs and teaching people how to plant them and where - as well as how to use them.