Sweet basil can be very testy at first. I find mine will not even grow in a pot. They like a lot of room in the soil to spread their roots. My garden professional told me basil likes to "live in hell". It likes hot, dry climates with little water. The soil needs to dry out between each watering. I live in Phoenix, Arizona where my basil does its best growing in 100-120 degree heat in full sun. If you don't live "in hell" I would try to get a variety of herb that does better in your climate.
