Genovese Basil

Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an heirloom variety developed in Italy that’s the go-to for making pesto. Round, lush leaves on proud, tall plants. The plants can survive multiple cuttings throughout the season once established. In warmer climates, start seedlings early in the greenhouse and transplant as soon as frost danger has cleared at rather close spacing (2-4 inches). Plants will grow slower in the cooler spring weather but will have enough foliage to harvests by May. Thin the plants back to more ideal spacing for summer growth and enjoy your first harvests before summer has even begun.

Seeds are certified organic.

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Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an heirloom variety developed in Italy that’s the go-to for making pesto. Round, lush leaves on proud, tall plants. The plants can survive multiple cuttings throughout the season once established. In warmer climates, start seedlings early in the greenhouse and transplant as soon as frost danger has cleared at rather close spacing (2-4 inches). Plants will grow slower in the cooler spring weather but will have enough foliage to harvests by May. Thin the plants back to more ideal spacing for summer growth and enjoy your first harvests before summer has even begun.

Seeds are certified organic.

Common Name:
Genovese Basil
Scientific Name:
Ocimum basilicum
Description:
Lush, slightly rounded leaves with a strong savory aroma. The choice heirloom basil for pesto.
Plant Lifespan:
Perennial
Cold Hardiness (F):
Zone 9b (25 to 30)
Light Requirements:
Full Sun (min. 6 hours a day)
Seed In:
Mid-Spring
Seeding Depth:
1/16 in.
Days to Sprout:
5-10
Optimal Soil Temperature (F):
65-70
Plant Spacing:
18-36 in.
Plant Height:
2 ft.
Average Days from Seed to Harvest:
80-90

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