Description
Sweet Basil, an attractive, bushy plant originated in tropical Asia and has been cultivated for thousands of years. This warm-weather annual has a refreshing, aromatic flavor that make it a classic ingredient of many Italian dishes. This variety grows well in containers and makes a good addition to flower borders and herb gardens. Plant in shallow saucers for winter micro-greens and harvest by snipping off tender young shoots with scissors. The young shoots have a more subtle flavor than the mature leaves. Use leaves fresh or dried in cooking, herbals and essential oils.
Germination temperature 70-85 deg. in 7-14 days. Approximately 590 seeds/750 mg pkt. Basil seed can remain viable for up to 5 years if stored in a cool dry location.
Plant basil with your tomatoes and it will improve the growth and flavor of your tomatoes. Basil also does well with peppers, oregano, asparagus and petunias. This herb has been known to repel flies and mosquitoes but should not be planted next to rue or sage.
Germ: 6-10 days
Maturity: 80-90 days
Net Wt. per Packet: 750 mg
Approximate Seed Count: 590 Seeds/Packet
Plant: Sow the seed into well drained soil 1-2 weeks before the last spring frost or sow indoors 5-6 weeks earlier and then transplant to the garden after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
Care: Water regularly and fertillize when the plants are 6″ (15cm) tall. Pinch the stem tips to encourage branching.
Harvest: Just before the flowers open, cut individual stems above small side shoots which will grow later. Strip leaves and use fresh. Hang whole plants or leafy in a cool dry spot until completely dried and then remove leaves and store in an airtight container.
