Likes wide range of soil textures, rich and moist soil. Mulch with compost to retain soil moisture and prune away flowers to maintain best foliage flavor. Side-dress with compost in mid-season to enhance production. Basil is easily damaged by low temperatures. In fall, cover with cloths to prolong the season and protect from the earliest frost. Plant away from into to prevent damage from plant bugs. Harvest leaves every week, pinching terminal buds first to encourage branching. The leaves can be used fresh or dried. The dried foliage loses its color and flavor but can be used as a tea to aid digestion, use 1 teaspoon of leaf per cup of water. Best preserved chopped and frozen or as pesto. If freezing pesto, leave out the garlic until your ready to use it. Garlic has a tendency to become bitter after a few months. Basil keeps well in a glass jar covered with olive oil. Plant near tomatoes and peppers to enhance their growth. Plant a second crop to ensure a plentiful supply all summer.