Sweet Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is the classic Italian basil variety, prized for its sweet, aromatic leaves and culinary versatility. This Non-GMO Sweet Genovese Basil Seeds produces lush, green foliage and occasional purple-tinged flowers, making it perfect for herb gardens, containers, and borders.
Genovese Basil thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Harvesting leaves encourages bushier growth, providing a continuous supply of fresh basil for pesto, salads, sauces, and other culinary uses. Its fragrant flowers also attract pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.
Features
- Aromatic sweet basil with classic Italian flavor
- Non-GMO seed quality
- Produces occasional purple-tinged flowers
- Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
- Low-maintenance, fast-growing annual/perennial in warm climates
- Ideal for culinary gardens, containers, and borders
- Encourages bushy, productive growth
Specifications
- Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
- Common Name: Sweet Genovese Basil
- Seed Type: Non-GMO
- Plant Type: Annual herb (perennial in warm climates)
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (grow as annual in cooler zones)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil
- Water Needs: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist
- Height: 12–24 inches
- Spacing: 8–12 inches
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Flower Color: Purple-tinged
- Season for Planting: Spring or early summer
- Germination Time: 7–14 days
- Germination Temperature: 70–80°F
- Sowing Method: Surface sow; lightly cover seeds
- Growth Habit: Upright, bushy
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Uses: Culinary herb gardens, containers, borders, pollinator-friendly plantings
Planting Guide
- Soil Preparation: Use fertile, well-draining soil; enrich with compost if desired.
- Sowing Time: Direct sow outdoors after frost or start indoors 4–6 weeks early.
- Seed Depth: Lightly cover seeds with 1/8 inch soil.
- Watering for Germination: Keep soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.
- Germination Window: 7–14 days depending on temperature.
- Light Requirements: Full sun for best flavor and growth.
- Thinning: Space seedlings 8–12 inches apart.
- Watering After Establishment: Moderate; allow soil to slightly dry between watering.
- Maintenance Tips: Regularly harvest leaves to encourage bushier growth.
- Flowering Care: Flowers attract pollinators; pinch flowers to focus on leaf production.
