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Growing Organic Dark Opal in the Herb Garden

Basil is a warm-weather crop grown both indoors and out. For earliest starts, begin indoors 6-8 weeks prior to final frost. Plant 4-6 seeds .25 inches deep per cell or 3-4 inches apart in the garden in moderately moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Germinates in 5-10 days, thinning back to 1-2 plants per pot or every 9-12 inches in the garden as true leaves establish. Harden off seedlings if transplanting outside.

Harvesting of Organic Dark Opal

The best time to harvest the leaves is in the morning. Harvest/prune the plants before they set flowers to encourage the plant to produce fresh leaves throughout the season. To prune the plant, remove the top several sets of leaves on each stem, taking care to leave at least three sets of leaves on the lower part. A shot of liquid nitrogen fertilizer, at pruning time, will help the plants recover. Eat basil often and dry or freeze leaves throughout the summer. Make your final harvest before the weather drops below 40 F, as the plant will not survive the cold.

About Organic Dark Opal Garden Seeds

Dark Opal favor is favored in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines for its unique profile that can enhance both fresh dishes and cooked meals. The aromatic foliage is not only flavorful but also rich in antioxidants, thanks to the high anthocyanin content responsible for the dark purple hue.

Dark Opal basil also plays a role in attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies during its blooming period. It produces bright cerise flower spikes that add additional color and interest to garden spaces. The plant is generally low-maintenance, tolerates brief dry spells once established, and is less appealing to deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for diverse garden environments.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Experiment with infusing basil into oils or vinegar to create flavorful condiments for salads and dishes."

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Organic Dark Opal Seeds Per Package:

• 2 g packet - Approximately 1,250 Seeds
• .25 oz - Approximately 4,750 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 19,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 76,800 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 304,000 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 1,520,000 Seeds
• 25 lb - Approximately 7,600,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Organic Dark Opal seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.