Genovese Basil

Approx. 250 SEEDS. Ocimum basilicum. 60+ days. Annual in zones 3 - 9, perennial in zones 9 - 11. Heirloom. One of the most popular varieties with large, fragrant, dark-green leaves that are sweet and bold in flavor. Superb for pesto, sauces, salads, and pizza. A great companion plant for your garden as it repels pests.  Sow seeds 1/4" deep indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last frost date. Firm lightly. Keep evenly moist and at 70 degrees F. Germinates in 7 - 14 days. Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed when seedlings have at least 3 sets of leaves in soil that has been amended with compost. Full sun. Can also be direct sown after all danger of frost has passed. Space plants 8 - 18" apart. Keep well-watered, especially during dry spells. Pinch flower buds to prevent bolting and prune regularly to encourage production. Harvest leaves in the morning at any point in the growing season, taking care not to cut the woody stems of the plant, as they will not regrow.