Sow the seeds thinly onto moist seed compost. Basil germinates most reliably in warm conditions at around 20°C. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged.

Keep seedlings somewhere warm and bright. Once they have developed several leaves, thin overcrowded seedlings or move them into their own pots to give them room to grow.

Avoid overwatering young seedlings, as constantly wet compost can encourage problems such as damping off.

Basil likes plenty of light, warmth and a sheltered position. A sunny windowsill is ideal indoors.

If moving plants outside, wait until conditions are reliably warm. Basil dislikes cold weather and is not hardy in the UK.

Keep the compost evenly moist, but don't leave the roots sitting in water. Container-grown basil may need regular watering during warm weather.

Regularly picking the growing tips encourages the plant to become bushier and produce more leaves.

Basil can flower later in the season. You can remove developing flowers if you want to concentrate on leaf production, or allow some to flower for visiting pollinators.

Pick leaves whenever you need them once the plant is established. Taking the shoot tips rather than only individual leaves helps encourage bushier growth.

Basil growing in fresh compost doesn't need heavy feeding. Container plants can eventually benefit from occasional feeding as the nutrients in their compost are used up.

Warmth matters. If your basil is struggling despite having enough light and water, check that it isn't sitting somewhere cold or draughty.