The quintessential culinary basil is the Genovese type known as Green Basil Plant. The large, deep green leaves have a spicy floral smell and taste that no other herb can substitute. Genovese will produce fresh leaves from late spring through early fall. Basil is perfect for growing in containers and attracts beneficial pollinators when left to flower. Successional planting of young basil plants every two weeks will provide leaves for fresh use until the end of summer.
Genovese Basil Care
Plant basil in the garden when all danger of frost has passed in the spring. Basil enjoys warm soil and full sun exposure. Space plants 6 inches apart on center and add 1-2 inches of organic compost to the soil prior to planting. Well-draining soil is essential to keep the roots from rotting. A mulch of loose straw or perlite (in a container) will help keep the basil stems dry and free from pests and diseases such as gray mold. Keep the plants deadheaded to encourage bushier foliage growth.
Growing Genovese Basil
Genovese Basil is harvestable at 68 days from seeding, or when multiple sets of true leaves exist. Growing Basil in the greenhouse is a great way to extend the harvest. Regular watering is crucial for container-grown plants. Basil can grow on a window sill with a southern exposure over winter.
Plant basil in a soil-based potting mix that has added perlite or vermiculite for good drainage. Basil mixes well with other annuals in mixed containers and when left to flower, is a great attractor of beneficial pollinators. The white flower spikes can grow to 6-7 inches long and even make good cut flowers for the vase.
Watering Genovese Basil
Basil requires consistent watering with 1 inch of water per week. Ideally, the watering sessions should be evenly spaced throughout the week to maintain lightly moist soil at all times. Container-grown pots will need watering every day.
Feeding Genovese Basil
Basil is a hungry plant and will benefit from a balanced fertilizer. A balanced NPK ratio will support foliage growth and a healthy root system. Feed basil in the garden or a pot every two weeks with a diluted liquid feed.
Green Basil Plant Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 8 – 10
Plant Type: Edible Plants
Light Exposure: Full Sun (At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 18 – 24 Inches
Mature Spread: 12 – 15 Inches
Mature Spacing: 12 – 15 Inches
Habit: Upright
Flower Color(s): White
Flower Description:
Bloom Period: Summer Bloom
Foliage Type: Herbaceous
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description:
Seasonal Interest: Summer Flowering
Watering: Average
Resists: Deer, Rabbit
Tolerates: Heat
Attracts: Bees, Birds, Butterflies
Container Role:
Uses: Borders, Containers
Features: Attracts Pollinators, Foliage Interest
Brand: Sarahs Superb Herbs
Common Name: Green Basil Plant
Other Name(s): Green Basil
Scientific Name: Ocimum b. ‘Genovese’ – Green Basil
