Mozzarella Basil (Ocimum Basilicum) is an heirloom variety of basil known for its sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with mozzarella cheese, making it ideal for Italian dishes like caprese salad and pizza. This basil variety is a versatile herb that thrives in warm climates and adds a rich, fresh taste to a variety of culinary recipes. The plant has large, glossy green leaves and produces small white or purple flower clusters. With 200 seeds per packet, this herb is a must-have for herb gardens, kitchen gardens, or container gardening.

Key Features:

• Sweet Flavor: Mozzarella Basil is known for its aromatic, sweet, and slightly peppery taste, making it the perfect complement to fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and Italian dishes.
• Heirloom Variety: This basil is an authentic, non-hybrid, open-pollinated heirloom variety passed down for generations, preserving its traditional flavor and versatility.
• Compact Growth: The plant has a bushy growth habit, making it perfect for container gardening or smaller garden spaces.
• Attractive Flowers: It produces delicate white or purple flower spikes that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
• Culinary Uses: Ideal for fresh use in salads, pesto, pasta, pizzas, and more, Mozzarella Basil enhances any dish with its fresh and vibrant flavor.

Growing Information:

• Light: Basil requires full sun to thrive, ideally 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The more sunlight it gets, the better the flavor and leaf production.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is best for basil. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to ensure healthy growth and abundant leaf production. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) is ideal.
• Planting Tips:
  • Direct sow seeds after the last frost, or start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Basil has a long growing season, so starting indoors can give it a head start.
  • To plant, scatter seeds lightly on the surface of the soil and press gently without covering, as basil seeds need light to germinate.
  • Keep the soil moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 5-10 days at temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C).
  • Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into your garden or container with about 10-12 inches of space between plants.
• Watering: Basil prefers consistently moist soil, but it’s important to avoid waterlogging. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Maintenance:
  • Pinch off flowers as soon as they appear to encourage continued leaf growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody.
  • Regular harvesting of the leaves will promote new growth and help keep the plant from becoming too leggy.
  • Cut the plant back at the end of the growing season and harvest any remaining leaves for drying or freezing.

Benefits:

• Fresh, Flavorful Herb: Mozzarella Basil’s sweet flavor makes it a popular choice in Italian cuisine, ideal for fresh dishes like caprese salad, pesto, and sauces.
• Attracts Pollinators: The plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies, helping support pollinator populations in your garden.
• Easy to Grow: This basil variety is easy to grow in both garden beds and containers, making it a great option for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
• Versatile Culinary Use: Mozzarella Basil can be used fresh in a variety of dishes, or it can be dried or frozen for later use.
• Health Benefits: Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is often used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and support overall health.

Growing Zones:

• Suitable for USDA Zones 4-11. Basil is an annual herb that thrives in warm weather and should be planted after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).

How to Use in the Garden:

• Container Gardening: Mozzarella Basil grows well in pots, making it an excellent choice for balconies, patios, or small garden spaces. Use a large container to give the plant enough room to grow.
• Herb Gardens: Plant it in a dedicated herb garden or along with other culinary herbs like thyme, oregano, and parsley for easy access while cooking.
• Companion Planting: Basil can help repel pests like mosquitoes and aphids, making it a good companion plant for tomatoes, peppers, and other garden vegetables.
• Cutting Gardens: Grow Mozzarella Basil for both its culinary value and as a source of attractive foliage and flowers to cut for fresh arrangements.

Conclusion: Mozzarella Basil (Ocimum Basilicum) is a delightful, easy-to-grow herb that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you're making a fresh caprese salad, preparing pesto, or adding a fresh touch to pizza, this sweet, aromatic basil is sure to elevate your culinary creations. With 200 seeds per packet, you'll have plenty of opportunities to grow this beloved heirloom herb in your garden or containers. Enjoy the vibrant flavor, attractive flowers, and pollinator-friendly benefits of Mozzarella Basil all season long.