Basil Herb Seeds, Genovese or Sweet Basil

Genovese Basil Herb Seeds,  Non GMO, Open Pollinated.

Minimum 25 seeds per package.

Genovese Basil is a cultivar of Ocimum basilicum (sweet basil). It is one of the most popular basils for culinary use, particularly for its use in pesto, the traditional Genovese sauce. It is so easy to grow and is a great companion plant with most fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Full Sun
Plant Depth, ¼” deep, barely cover in soil, keep moist until the seedling pops up.
Days To Maturity, 60-90 days
Life Cycle, Annual
Height, approx. 18-24 inches
Spread, approx. 10-14 inches
Additional Uses
Container Plant or direct sow
Fragrant
Attracts pollinators like crazy when it is in bloom
Companion planting
Excellent in salads, baking, cooking, flower arranging and drying herbs.

Sowing Directly in the Garden:
Direct sow in average soil in full sun after all danger of frost when the soil is at least 60 degrees F.
Remove weeds and work organic matter into the top 6-8 inches of soil; then level and smooth.
Sow seeds evenly and cover with ¼ inches of fine soil.
Firm the soil lightly and keep evenly moist.
Seedlings will emerge in 7-14 days, possibly longer in cooler soils.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For herbs, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time.

Keep plants well-watered during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water at the soil level. Pinch the stems to encourage bushiness. Pinch flowers off to prolong the harvest.

To harvest the leaves, pinch the stems just above a set of leaves as needed from the top. This will also help keep the plants bushy.

Do not harvest too much of the plant at one time as this may weaken the plant.
Flowers are also edible and may be used as a garnish. To dry, cut whole stems on a dry morning. Tie stems loosely together in small bunches and hang in a dry, airy location out of the sun. Basil may also be dried on a cheesecloth or a window screen in a dry, shady location. When thoroughly dry, store in a tightly sealed glass jar in a dry, dark location.

Some pics of my sour dough basil bread, very tasty. Contact me for recipe if you like.