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Plant Profile

Italian Genovese Basil

About Basil

  • Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
  • Common Name: Italian Genovese Basil
  • Family: Lamiaceae Martinov
  • Germination: 7 to 14 days
  • Hardiness: Warm weather plant
  • Life Cycle: Annual
  • Medicinal: Yes
  • Heirloom
  • Maturity: 60 to 70 days
  • Non-GMO
  • Organic
  • Plant Food: FoxFarm Big Bloom for Organic Gardening
  • Seed Depth: 1/4 inch
  • Size: Height 24 to 30 inches

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Harvesting Basil

Some plants like leaf lettuce, kale, cilantro, basil, and broccoli will be harvested several times by removing larger leaves or flower heads and have a longer period of harvesting.
For a quick recipe, harvest at 6+ inches by cutting or pinching off the top pair of leaves at the end of any branch.
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.

Recipes With Basil

Tips For Using Basil

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.

Medical Disclaimer

Bounty Gardens is strictly an information website about gardening and wellness topics. It is not intended for medical advice. It does not take the place of medical advice or treatment from a physician. Readers should consult their own doctor or a qualified healthcare professional for specific health concerns and questions. Bounty Gardens does not recommend or endorse any products.
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