


Looking to grow fresh basil in pots — but want something more vibrant than regular green leaves? Dark Opal Basil Seeds offer edible purple basil that thrives in sunlight and heat.
Ideal for home gardening in Pakistan, this variety adds colour, aroma, and utility to your rooftop garden, balcony trays, or sunny windowsill. With a sweeter, milder flavour and easy regrowth after each harvest, it’s both practical and eye-catching.
Key Benefits
- Deep purple, edible leaves – adds colour and taste to dishes
- Compact growth – ideal for containers, trays, and windowsills
- Milder than green basil – suitable for salads, teas, and fresh use
- Thrives in full sun and warm balconies
- Grows back after harvesting – multiple cuttings per season
How to Grow Dark Opal Basil
When to Plant:
Sow between February and May when days are warm
Where to Grow:
- 6–10 inch pots or trays on rooftops or balconies
- Soil beds with 4–6 hours of direct sunlight
- Bright indoor spots with good airflow
How to Sow:
- Mix 2 parts garden soil with 1 part vermicompost
- Scatter seeds on the surface and cover lightly with fine soil
- Mist gently; keep surface moist until germination (5–10 days)
- Thin seedlings after 2 weeks to avoid overcrowding
- Begin harvesting when plants are around 5–6 inches tall
Harvest Tip:
Pinch off top leaves weekly to encourage branching and deepen leaf colour.
Fertilizer Schedule
- Growth Phase: 1 tsp NPK 20-20-20 per 1L water every 10-15 days
- Leaf Boost: Add 1 tbsp Mustard Cake Powder per pot every 3–4 weeks
- Pest Control: Use Neem Oil every 7–10 days to repel aphids and mites
Tips from Local Gardeners
- Place in full sun to intensify purple colour
- Avoid overwatering — water when the top inch is dry
- Don’t let it flower too early — flowering reduces flavour
- Use in shallow trays to grow multiple plants side-by-side
FAQs
Is Dark Opal Basil edible?
Yes — it’s fully edible with a sweet, mild basil flavour. Use in salads, tea, or as a garnish.
Can I grow it in pots or trays?
Absolutely. It’s designed for compact spaces like balcony containers and shallow trays.
What makes it different from green basil?
It has a milder taste, purple colour, and a slightly slower growth rate — but same care and cutting method.
Does it grow back after cutting?
Yes — it regrows quickly when harvested from the top.
How much sunlight does it need?
4–6 hours of direct sun daily for best colour and growth.