Italian Genovese Basil

Plant Profile

Italian Genovese Basil

About

Basil is often used in Italian cooking. This plant likes 6-8 hours of sunlight and well-drained soil. Plant seeds and seedlings 6-10 inches apart and cover with 1/4-inch of soil. Container-grown plants will dry out faster. Protect from frost to survive winter.
  • Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
  • Common Name: Italian Genovese Basil
  • Family: Lamiaceae Martinov
  • Germination: 7 to 14 days
  • Hardiness: Warm weather plant, frost-sensitive
  • Life Cycle: Annual
  • Medicinal: Yes
  • Sunlight: 6-8 hours
  • Maturity: 60 to 70 days
  • Non-GMO
  • Plant Food: FoxFarm Big Bloom for Organic Gardening
  • Seed Depth: 1/4 inch
  • Size: Height 24 to 30 inches
  • Soil: Well-drained
  • Spacing: 6-10 inches apart

Harvesting Information

Begin harvesting after plants are 6-8 inches tall by snipping fresh young leaves as needed. When harvesting whole stems, cut just above a pair of leaves to encourage new growth at cut point.

Trim back portions of the plant that begin to flower to encourage more leaf growth.

If you wish to dry the leaves as a spice, wait until the plant is larger. Rinse off any unwanted dirt or insects and then set stems on a paper towel to dry. Turn occasionally to ensure all leaves are dry. Then tie small bundles together (up to 5 stems). In a dark space, hang each bundle on a separate hook and cover with paper bags that allow air to flow through each bag. In two or more weeks, the leaves should be ready to store if they crumble between your fingers.

Pruning Information

After 6 weeks of growth, pinch the tip from the center shoot to force side growth and prevent early flowering. Snip flowers to continue growth.

On the stems that need trimming, find 2 healthy leaves and cut about a half inch above the leaves. After pruning, we use Fox Farm Big Bloom Liquid Plant Food, Organic Bloom Fertilizer to help basil grow into a fuller plant.

Selection & Storage

Hang upside down in small bunches and air dry for a week or so. Once dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store whole or ground in an air-tight container away from heat and light.

Usage Tips

Health Benefits

Basil has also been used to relief headaches by rubbing crushed leaves on the temples. It can reduce the risk of low blood sugar, heal minor abrasions, ease PMS, boost appetite, lower stress levels, reduce fever, ease a sore throat and other respiratory issues, and eliminate gas.

Wellness