Italian Large Leaf Basil

Italian Large Leaf Basil

75 Days. High yielding plant with large, wrinkled leaves dark green, shiny leaves grow up to 3 inches long on a tall, erect plant that is slow to bolt

Open Pollinated. Non-GMO. Heirloom.

Disease Resistant. Pest Resistant. Heat Tolerant. Humidity Tolerant.

*Approximately 200 Seeds

Maturity: 75 Days

Germination: 7-10 Days

Light Requirements: Full sun

Planting Depth: 1/4”

Start Indoors: 6-8 weeks before the average last frost

Soil Requirements: Fertile, well-drained

Plant Spacing: 12-15”

Plant Height: 18-24”

Plant Spread: 12-15”

Growing Instructions

Start the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the average first frost date. Plant 2-3 seeds per pot or cell 1/4” deep in seed starting mix. Use a heat mat to help increase germination. Keep the seeds moist, not wet.  Thin the seedlings to 1 per pot or cell after the second set of true leaves appear. Transplant the plants outside when the temperatures remain above 65°F. Harden off the plants before transplanting.

Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0 in an area that receives full sunlight. Before planting, mix 3-4” of compost and manure into the top 6” of soil. Add 2-3” of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, keep the roots cool and suppress weeds. Water when the soil is dry 1” down. To help prevent disease, water at the base of the plant. As soon as the plant reaches 6-8” tall, cut the main stem about an inch above a node to force it to branch. Leave 2-3” of stem on the plant to continue growing. Harvest the leaves frequently to encourage new growth.