Nufar Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Nufar') is a high-yielding, organic variety of basil known for its large, fragrant green leaves and excellent resistance to downy mildew. This basil variety is perfect for both culinary and ornamental uses, offering a robust, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that enhances a variety of dishes, from pesto and salads to soups and sauces. Nufar Basil’s ability to thrive in a range of conditions makes it an ideal choice for organic gardeners and those looking for a reliable, high-quality basil that’s easy to grow and harvest.

Key Features:

• Organic Seeds: Grown and harvested without synthetic chemicals or pesticides.
• Downy Mildew Resistance: Specifically bred for better resistance to common basil diseases, ensuring a healthy harvest.
• Robust Flavor: Sweet, slightly spicy flavor perfect for Mediterranean dishes, pesto, and garnishes.
• Large, Vibrant Leaves: Produces large, deep green leaves with excellent flavor retention.
• High-Yielding: A prolific basil variety, ideal for regular harvesting.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators with its fragrant leaves and flowers.

Growing Information:

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and flavor.
• Soil Preferences: Well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5).
• Planting Tips:
  1. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors once the soil is warm.
  2. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep, keeping the soil moist until germination (7–14 days).
  3. Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for optimal air circulation and growth.
• Watering Needs: Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
• Pruning & Harvesting:
  1. Pinch off the top of the plant to encourage bushier growth and prevent early flowering.
  2. Harvest leaves regularly, taking just a few leaves at a time to promote new growth.
  3. Leaves can be used fresh or dried for later use.
• Winter Care: Nufar Basil is typically grown as an annual, but it can be brought indoors during the winter in containers for year-round use.

Benefits:

• Organic Quality: Free from synthetic chemicals, perfect for organic gardeners.
• Disease Resistance: Specially bred for strong resistance to downy mildew, ensuring a healthier, more productive crop.
• High-Flavor Yield: Produces large, flavorful leaves that are perfect for fresh use in cooking.
• Versatile Culinary Use: Ideal for Mediterranean, Italian, and Southeast Asian dishes.
• Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.

Growing Zones:

• Best suited for USDA zones 9–11, though it can be grown as an annual in cooler zones.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Herb & Culinary Gardens: A great addition to herb gardens, perfect for seasoning and garnishing a variety of dishes.
• Container Gardening: Thrives in pots, containers, or raised beds, making it ideal for smaller spaces or patios.
• Edible Landscaping: A valuable plant for edible landscaping, providing both beauty and flavor in the garden.
• Pollinator Gardens: Encourages pollinators to visit your garden, helping to support biodiversity.

Conclusion:
Nufar Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Nufar') Organic Seeds are an excellent choice for organic gardeners who want a high-quality, disease-resistant basil with a robust, flavorful profile. With its large, fragrant leaves, this variety thrives in full sun and produces a prolific harvest, perfect for culinary applications. Whether you're growing it in a dedicated herb garden, a container, or as part of an edible landscape, Nufar Basil is sure to enhance both the flavor and beauty of your garden. Grow with confidence, knowing you’re choosing a variety that offers superior taste, organic quality, and disease resistance.