Organic Genovese Basil Seeds - Ocimum basilicum

Slow to bolt, this fragrant plant offers a delicious aroma and is choice for a wide range of Italian and Thai dishes. Excellent for pesto, marinara, in soups, stews, and even tea. Enjoy this herb raw or lightly cooked. This annual is easy to grow and is known for its vigor. Also known for its medicinal properties, Genovese Basil is known to have the properties of six different compounds that work throughout the body in a range of various symptoms. It aids in digestion, reduces blood pressure, eases symptoms of emphysema and bronchitis. It can also be a mild sedative and effective bug repellent. Seed Profile Organic Open-Pollinated Non-GMO Annual Sun : Full Indoors: 4-6 weeks before last frost Direct Sow : After last frost Seed Count : 200 Days to Maturity : 50-80 Plant Size : 10"-12" Gardening Tips Plant every 3 weeks for continual harvest. When central stem is 6", pinch off top. Thin to strongest plants. Add mulch at base. Read our blog post on The Power of Mulching If transplanting, harden off. Add row cover, if needed. If starting seeds indoors, it is key that your new starts be hardened off. This is a process that requires taking them outside during the day, for a period of time, before they are planted. This acclimates your seedlings to the outside world, meaning the elements like the wind and sun. We do it for several weeks to a month as this strengthens their stems and overall plant structure. Start for a short period of time initially, then graduate to more time each day One week minimum is recommended Bring them inside in the early evening and overnight Keep an eye on them and constantly water them. Make sure they have not blown over. Harvesting Tips This annual will keep well if pinched back (not allowing it to flower) and will offer a long growing season. Check out our blog on Proper Basil Harvesting Techniques.