Gulf & South Florida calendar
Basil
Ocimum basilicum · mint family · the leaves
At its best in Louisiana from late March to late May. Right now it’s winding down.
The season
JFMAMJJASOND
Field notes
Choosing
Leaves bright green, no black spots or wilting.
Keeping
Stems in water on the counter, never the fridge — it bruises cold.
Also in season in Louisiana
Season dates for the Gulf & South Florida calendar, checked locally.