Italian Large Leaf Basil - Heirloom Herb Garden Seed

Basil Italian Large Leaf (Ocimum Basilicum), is an annual seed that does best in growing zones 4-10. Sow 6-8 weeks before the last frost in spring. Keep the soil moist and around 70 degrees. You should see seedlings emerge 7-14 days after planting your seeds. As soon as seedlings appear make sure and give the plants plenty of sunlight. Keep them on a windowsill if possible, or under fluorescent grow lights during the day.

For drying or freezing, harvest leaves that have their maximum oil content just before they flower. To dry, cut whole stems on a dry morning, tie stems loosely together in small bunches and hang to dry in an airy location. If you are going to freeze it, you may do so on a cookie sheet and then seal them in a zip lock bag. You can also mince it and freeze in an ice cube tray with water or oil. To harvest, pinch the stem just above a set of leaves as needed from the top this will help to keep the plants bushy. Make sure you don't harvest too much at a time as this can weaken the plant. The flowers of the Basil Italian Large Leaf are also edible and are used sometimes as a garnish

Italian Large Leaf Basil is fragrant and flavorful, growing extra-large leaves that are a staple ingredient of the culinary world. Whether you are using this for Pesto, Spaghetti sauce, or simply as a companion for your tomato plants (basil is a superb pest repellent), it is one of the best herbs for big satisfying harvests all summer long. Basil Italian Large Leaf loves hot weather and lots of sunshine, but it needs consistently moist, rich soil.

Sowing: If you are going to start these seeds indoors use pots or starter kits that are at least 3-4" deep. Using a rich, moist soil start by planting the seeds ¼" beneath the soil. If you are going to start the sowing outside make sure that the weather is at least 60 degrees. Plant the seeds ¼" beneath the soil and keep well-watered. Spacing needs to be 18" in between rows and 4-8" between plants.

Transplanting: To transplant make sure that the seedlings have at least 3 pairs of leaves. Make sure that you select an area that is fully in the sun during the day. Prepare your garden by turning about 8 inches of the soil. Dig a hole for each plant that is amply to accommodate the whole root ball. Place it level with the top soil and fill around with soil until all roots are covered.

Soil Preference: Basil Italian Large Leaf is not drought tolerate, so it is best to choose a soil that is rich and moist.

Other Tips: Carefully remove the plant from your starting pots and gently loosen the root ball with your hands; this will encourage good root development. Use the plant tag as a location marker for easy access to get to your seedlings.

• 1 oz - Approximately 17,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 68,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 272,000 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 1,360,000 Seeds
• 25 lb - Approximately 6,800,000 Seeds