Sweet Basil (Genovese) Plants Certified Organic Herb— 3.5” pot

1- 3.5inch Pot Certified Organic Genovese Sweet Basil Plants Genovese basil is a variety of sweet basil that originated in Italy. Its vigorous, large leaves have a sweet, slightly spicy flavor. Genovese basil produces bright green, slightly crinkled leaves that can grow up to 3 inches (7.6 cm.) long. They are excellent for pesto, caprise salad and other dishes that require large, fresh basil leaves. In fact, Genovese basil uses are much the same as with any other sweet basil plant. Genovese basil plants can grow 2- to 3-feet (.61-.91 m.) high. Plants will grow in a full, bushy form if the tips are pinched regularly and the plant is not allowed to flower. Once basil plants produce flowers, all the plant’s energy is directed into flower and seed production, and the vegetative parts of the plant will stop growing. If Genovese basil plants do go to flower though, the flowers can be harvested and used in recipes that call for basil. However, basil flowers are said to have a much more concentrated basil flavor and scent, so they should be used sparingly. How to Grow Genovese Basil Plants Genovese basil is a preferred variety of sweet basil, not only because of its large, sweet leaves, but it is also slow to bolt in extreme heat and does not become bitter with age. Like other basil varieties, Genovese basil plants prefer a site with rich, fertile soil and at least six hours of sunlight each day. It is best to create a nutrient-rich bed for basil plants than to plant them in poor soil and rely on fertilizers to feed them. Fertilizers can negatively affect the flavor, scent and potency of basil plants. Genovese basil growing requirements are the same as any basil plant. Seeds should be sown indoors four to six weeks before the last expected frost date for your area. Genovese basil plants should germinate in about 5-10 days but plants should not be placed outdoors until daytime temperatures remain steadily in the 70 F. (21 C.) range. Genovese basil plants also are excellent for use in containers. In older times, basil was planted in window boxes or windowsill pots to keep flies out

• Sweet basil live plant grown in a nursery pot and ready for transplanting into containers, raised beds, or garden spaces
• Classic aromatic culinary herb with large fragrant green leaves ideal for pesto, pasta, salads, pizza, sauces, and fresh garnishes
• Fast-growing annual herb that thrives in warm weather and full sun conditions
• Excellent for indoor kitchen herb gardens, patios, balconies, and outdoor vegetable gardens
• Produces flavorful leaves throughout the growing season with regular harvesting
• Attractive compact growth habit makes it suitable for countertop herb gardens and decorative planters
• Pollinator-friendly herb that can attract bees and beneficial insects when allowed to flower
• Easy-to-grow herb plant suitable for beginner and experienced gardeners alike
• Prefers well-draining soil and regular watering for best growth and leaf production
• Great companion plant for tomatoes, peppers, and vegetable gardens