How to Care for Genovese Basil

Genovese basil (Ocimum basilicum "Genovese") is a warm weather crop that grows best when daytime temperatures are in the 70s and nighttime temperatures remain above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. A member of the mint family, basil is native to India and central Asia. Genovese is the basil variety most commonly used in making pesto. It grows 18 to 24 inches tall and is easy to care for. Harvest your Genovese basil 30 to 35 days after transplanting it into the garden.

Mulch
Fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Grow the Genovese basil in an area of the garden that receives at least six hours of sun a day.
- 2
  Supply the basil with a constant supply of moisture but keep the soil moist, not saturated.
- 3
  Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch, such as shredded leaves or pine needles, over the soil around the plants. This helps discourage weeds and keeps the soil moist.
- 4
  Fertilize the Genovese basil approximately two months after planting with 1/4 to 1/2 lb. of calcium nitrate per 100 square feet of garden. Water the fertilizer into the soil to a depth of 6 inches.
- 5
  Pinch off the tips of new stems to encourage the basil plant to produce more branches. Pinch off flowers throughout the season to keep the basil from going to seed.

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