{"product_id":"200-genovese-basil-seeds-heirloom-ocimum-basilicum-aromatic-culinary-herb","title":"200 Genovese Basil Seeds – Heirloom Ocimum basilicum, Aromatic Culinary Herb","description":"\u003cp\u003eGenovese Basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e) is a classic Italian heirloom herb prized for its large, tender leaves and sweet, aromatic flavor. This versatile culinary herb is a staple in kitchens around the world, perfect for fresh pesto, salads, sauces, and garnishes. Its compact growth habit and attractive foliage also make it a welcome addition to herb gardens, container plantings, and sunny borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEasy to grow from seed, Genovese Basil thrives in warm conditions and rewards gardeners with abundant harvests throughout the season. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this aromatic herb is a rewarding choice for any garden space.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePlant Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeirloom variety with large, glossy green leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSweet, aromatic flavor ideal for pesto and fresh culinary use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompact, bushy growth habit suitable for containers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttracts pollinators when allowed to flower\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEasy to grow from seed; fast-growing annual\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Information\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBotanical Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ocimum basilicum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Annual herb\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun (6-8 hours daily)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Well-drained, fertile soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Habit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bushy, upright\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA Hardiness Zones:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-11 (grown as annual)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature Height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12-24 inches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10-12 inches apart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePlanting \u0026amp; Care\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eSow Genovese basil seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C). Press seeds lightly into the soil surface; do not cover deeply as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, typically in 5-10 days. Thin seedlings to 10-12 inches apart to allow good air circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvide full sun and regular watering, avoiding overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases. Pinch off flower buds to encourage continued leaf production and a bushier plant. Harvest leaves regularly, starting from the top, to promote new growth. Basil is sensitive to cold; protect plants if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e200 Genovese Basil seeds (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blake's Flora \u0026 Soil","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67776129663286,"sku":"FOLIA-239","price":18.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0994\/4884\/8694\/files\/il_fullxfull.6697588867_db0h.jpg?v=1792468020","url":"https:\/\/blakesflora.com\/products\/200-genovese-basil-seeds-heirloom-ocimum-basilicum-aromatic-culinary-herb","provider":"Blake's Flora \u0026 Soil","version":"1.0","type":"link"}