{"product_id":"genovese-basil-seeds-2000-heirloom-non-gmo-italian-herb-seeds-for-planting","title":"Genovese Basil Seeds – 2000 Heirloom Non-GMO Italian Herb Seeds for Planting","description":"\u003cp\u003eGenovese basil (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e) is a classic Italian herb prized for its large, tender leaves and sweet, aromatic flavor. This heirloom, non-GMO variety is a favorite among gardeners and cooks for making pesto, adding fresh flavor to sauces, salads, and Mediterranean dishes. The plants grow vigorously and produce abundant foliage throughout the season, making them a rewarding choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith its compact habit and attractive green leaves, Genovese basil is well-suited for herb gardens, container growing, and raised beds. It also makes a lovely companion plant in vegetable gardens, attracting beneficial insects and adding a pleasant fragrance to the landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePlant Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeirloom, non-GMO Italian basil variety\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge, sweet, and highly aromatic leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVigorous growth habit with abundant yields\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent for fresh use, pesto, and cooking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttracts pollinators when allowed to flower\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\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Habit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upright, bushy\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\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGermination Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sow seeds 1\/4 inch deep; keep soil warm (65-70°F) and moist\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePlanting \u0026amp; Care\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eStart Genovese basil seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Press seeds lightly into the soil and keep consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 5-10 days. Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin or transplant to 10-12 inches apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBasil thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly, preferably in the morning, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Pinch off flower buds as they appear 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e2000 Genovese basil seeds (\u003cem\u003eOcimum basilicum\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blake's Flora \u0026 Soil","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67824711369014,"sku":"FOLIA2-1058","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0994\/4884\/8694\/files\/il_fullxfull.6530386460_4b3l.jpg?v=1793004250","url":"https:\/\/blakesflora.com\/products\/genovese-basil-seeds-2000-heirloom-non-gmo-italian-herb-seeds-for-planting","provider":"Blake's Flora \u0026 Soil","version":"1.0","type":"link"}