Mozzarella Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a Sweet Italian heirloom variety known for its large, tender, aromatic leaves and vigorous garden performance. This non-GMO basil produces lush green foliage on compact, fast-growing plants that thrive in warm, sunny locations. Excellent for container gardening, raised beds, and home gardens, Mozzarella Basil provides reliable leafy growth all season long.
Features
- Sweet Italian heirloom basil variety
- Non-GMO high-quality seeds
- Broad, tender, aromatic leaves
- Thrives in warm weather with full sun
- Excellent for containers, raised beds, and greenhouse growing
- Fast-growing with compact, bushy leaf production
- Continuous leafy growth with regular harvesting
Specifications
- Common Name: Mozzarella Basil, Sweet Italian Basil
- Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
- Plant Type: Annual
- USDA Zones: 4–11 (as a warm-season annual)
- Season: Late spring through summer
- Height: 12–24 inches
- Leaf Type: Broad, glossy, aromatic green leaves
- Bloom Color: White (if allowed to flower)
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile garden soil
- Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
- Heat Tolerance: Good, requires warm conditions
- Cold Tolerance: Poor; sensitive to frost
- Plant Spacing: 8–12 inches
- Seed Longevity: 3–5 years when stored cool and dry
Planting Guide
- Sowing Method: Start indoors or direct sow after frost.
- Seed Preparation: No pre-treatment required.
- When to Plant:
- Indoors: 4–6 weeks before last frost
- Outdoors: After frost when soil is warm
- Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch; cover lightly.
- Germination Time: 5–10 days with warm soil.
- Light Requirements: Full sun for strongest growth.
- Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil enriched with composted organic matter.
- Watering: Keep evenly moist; avoid waterlogging.
- Maintenance:
- Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness
- Remove flower buds to prolong leafy growth
- Harvest leaves regularly for stronger foliage production
