"Italian Mountain" Sweet Basil (Genovese-type)

Osimum basilicum

An incredible Genovese-type basil from the high Alps of northern Italy introduced to us by Adaptive Seeds. It grows vigorously in cooler weather and withstands disease much longer than other Genovese-types, especially as field grown basil. Our June field plantings are always still producing even into the cold, wet and windy October of a high mountainous zone 4. Italian Mountain Sweet has that classic Genovese flavor.

Growing Instructions:

Sow in trays indoors in late April/early May and transplant out after danger of frost has passed. Alternatively, direct sow after last frost.

Space plants 8'“ to 12” apart.

Space rows 15” to 18” apart.

Basil is a somewhat heavy feeder. Provide compost at time of planting. We also recommend a fall cover crop of peas or another annual legume to fix nitrogen for the upcoming spring planting.

Mulch with leaves, or whatever you have available, to hold moisture and suppress weeds. Make sure soil pH is between 5.8 and 7.0. If plant needs a growing boost, water with nitrogen tea or compost tea a few times. If trace minerals are inadequate, sprinkle a small amount of woodash in each planting hole.

Harvest Instructions:

Keep leaves harvested to prevent flowering. Pinch off oldest/biggest leaves and flowering tips. Basil will be a cut and come again all summer long.