Two yellow finches feeding on lemon basil
My basil is in full bloom. Actually this year I didn’t even plant basil – it volunteers year after year. Basil loves and thrives in the heat and will not tolerate even a little frost.
I allow my plants to go to seed even when I don’t have much use for it, because basil seed attracts one of my favorite birds – yellow finches. Here is a picture I snapped yesterday from my living room window of a pair of finches feasting on the basil seeds.
Basil also makes a nice filler plant for cut flower bouquets. The greens hold up well and the flowers add a nice texture. Actually, the best way to keep your cooking basil is to not put it in the fridge, but to put it in a glass of water on the countertop. It will hold up nicely for a week or so and it may even root! Adds a nice flare to the kitchen as well.
When I got back from California a few of my amaranth weeds had taken over. They were sporting over six feet tall and just as wide. I had originally let them grow because my rabbits like the greens. Can’t argue with volunteer fodder.