Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 'Sweet Genovese'

Sweet Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 'Basilico Genovese', is a popular basil variety known for its sweet flavor and aromatic leaves. It is an annual herb that can be easily grown from seeds. Sow seeds indoors from 4-6 weeks before the last expected spring frost or directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds at a depth of about 1/8 inch in the soil, choose a seed tray with individual cells or small pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix, and plant seeds 1-2 inches apart for indoors and thin to 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart once they have 2-3 sets of true leaves. Alternatively sow outside in well drained and tilled earth. Choose a sunny spot when the weather is consistently warm at night. Germination occurs in 5-10 days at a temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Leaves can be harvested by picking outer leaves and pinching out selected shoots to encourage bushy regrowth.