Genovese basil with green leaves

Genovese basil is a variant of the well-known fragrant herb. It is especially loved in Italian cuisine, where it both acts as a spice and has many health benefits. The bare, angular stems are adorned with large, oval, shiny green leaves. The stems branch above the soil surface, giving the plant a bushy appearance. With a height of 50 to 60 cm, it is ideal for small gardens or allotments. It also thrives indoors all year round if it is placed by a well-lit window.

Genovese basil thrives best in well-drained, humus-rich soil with lots of nutrients. It prefers a warm and protected place, but should not be exposed to direct, burning sunlight. In dry periods it should be watered moderately. It responds positively to fertilizer with compost, but cannot tolerate fresh manure.

The seeds can be sown in pots or in a seed bed from March to April. Direct sowing in the garden can be done a little later, in May, after the last frost. Due to the small size of the seeds, they should be sown shallowly. The first sprouts appear after 8 to 14 days. When the plants reach a height of 15 cm, they can be pricked out. It is also recommended to nibble the plants, as this promotes growth and strengthens the root system. When the minimum temperature is consistently above 5 °C, the plants can be moved out into the garden. There should be a distance of 30 to 45 cm between each plant.

To grow Genovese basil indoors, at least 5 hours of daily sunlight is required, alternatively we recommend that you acquire a strong grow light.

Each packet contains 1 gram of the greens Genovese basil seeds. On the package you will find basic information about the plant, tips for cultivation and recommended sowing date.

Height: 50 – 60 cm

Use: Herb - can be used fresh or dried

Growth form: Bushy

Leaves: Large, oval, shiny green

Location: Warm, protected place without direct sunlight; in well-drained, humus-rich soil with good nutrition

Weight approx.: 1 g

Read more about the plant variety here