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Growing Organic Genovese Basil 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. Basil plants are popularly grown indoors just as readily as they are planted outdoors in containers, planters, and the garden bed. Most varieties of basil require sunny and consistently moist conditions for a flavorful and booming harvest.

Harvesting of Organic Genovese Basil

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.

During the summer when you have a surplus of basil, make pesto and freeze it in ice cube trays. Then remove them to store in a freezer container. This is a perfect way to get pesto even during the dreariest days of winter.

About Organic Genovese Basil Garden Seeds

Recommended by the Following State Universities or Ag Extension Offices as a variety that performs well for their region. AL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN

Genovese is a sweet basil heirloom native to the Italian provinces of Genoa, Savona, and Imperia; while locals are decided that true Genovese hails from the Genoa district of Pra'. Sweet basil is preferred in Italian cuisine because it lacks the "minty" notes as found in more aggressive cultivars, allowing for more bold, savory notes to highlight the dish.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"One of my favorite summer lunches is Caprese salad, and Genovese basil is ideal for this application. Add a tall iced tea . . . the weeds can wait!"

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Organic Genovese Basil Seeds Per Package:

• 500 mg - Approximately 200 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 16,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 64,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 256,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Organic Genovese Basil seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.