Herb 'Genovese Basil'

Genovese basil seeds are the very best Italian pesto variety of basil. This is the traditional Italian heirloom variety of basil. It has shiny, large, almond-shaped leaves have a more pronounced flavour, and stores well if chopped and frozen in ice cube trays. Pinch growing tips for bushier plants. Basil requires good drainage and ample moisture during hot weather. If flowers develop, separate them from the plants and sprinkle over pasta or salads. Basil flowers are highly attractive to honeybees and other wild pollinators. Basil loves heat so wait until the soil has warmed up before planting. Basil seeds may take several weeks to germinate, so be patient. Bottom heat speeds germination.

DETAILS:

QTY: 150

SITE: Sun

TYPE: Annual

DEPTH: 1/4"

GERMINATION: 5-10 Days at 18-21°C

MATURITY: 70 Days

HEIGHT: 24-30"

SPACING: 4-8

PINCH: Yes

HOW TO GROW:
Direct Seed (recommended): Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, once the soil has warmed. Sow 2–3 seeds per inch in rows 18" apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. No thinning is required, but spacing plants to 4–8" apart will encourage healthy, full plants.

Transplant (alternative): Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before you plan to plant them outdoors. Sow seeds ¼" deep and maintain a temperature of $21°C$ for optimal germination. Transplant when seedlings have 3–4 sets of leaves.

Pinching: Pinch basil plants early and often to encourage a bushy habit and prevent flowering. Pinching the central stem above a set of leaves will encourage new growth from the sides.

Soil Preference and Watering: Basil prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing: Amending the soil with compost before planting is sufficient. If growth seems slow, a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be used.

Harvesting: For culinary use, harvest leaves as needed. For cut flower and filler use, harvest basil stems when the foliage is firm and the plant has developed flower spikes. Cut in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.