Comparing the growth and flowering of selected basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) varieties

Abstract

Investigations carried out in 2005-2006 related to the growth, flowering, and yielding of selected basil ( Ocimum basilicum L.) varieties. The most important biometric traits, number of days from sowing till flowering, size of fresh and air-dried herb weight, and essential oil content in dried material, were determined. Great morphological and developmental as well as chemical composition differentiation was found for studied basil varieties. Plants of 'Sweet' cv. were characterized by the largest height (53.4 cm) and side shoot number (16), 'Lemon' - by the largest plant diameter (42.3 cm). The number of days till flowering depended on weather conditions and the variety, and it amounted from 44 to 126. Basil flowers were white, pink, and violet. Herb yield depended on the variety and growth conditions. Differences in the amount and yield of essential oil from basil were also recorded. The largest amounts of oil (1.55%) were accumulated by 'Bush' cv.