Basil Italian Large Leaf

Plants produce high yields of 4″ long leaves. Highly uniform plants have a sweet aroma with notes of anise. Suitable for field and greenhouse production. Very similar to Nufar but with downy mildew resistance. NOTE: The breeder’s pre-commercial variety reference code is (ILL2) ‘Italian Large-Leaf 2′; you might see this code referenced in university trial reports or other resources. Ht. 24–30″. . Avg. 20,400 seeds/oz. Packet: 100 seeds.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:5-10 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C).
SOWING: Direct seed (recommended): Plant seeds 1/4″ deep, 2-3 seeds per inch, in rows 18″ apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary, but a final spacing of 4-8″ apart produces healthy, full plants. Note: Holy Basil requires some light for germination, so sow more shallowly than other basils. Transplant: Sow indoors 6 weeks prior to setting out. Plant 1/4″ deep and keep at 70°F (21°C) for best germination. Transplant to the field when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, spacing at 4-8″ apart in rows 18″ apart.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Moderately rich, moist soil. Basil is not drought tolerant and can be damaged by heat stress. Regular moisture throughout the growing season helps to ensure a good crop.
PLANT HEIGHT: Varies. See the product description for exact heights.
PLANT SPACING:4-8″.
HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.
HARVEST: Begin light harvesting after plants have become established. It is best done in the early morning when the temperature is cooler and the leaves are less likely to wilt. A full harvest should be completed just before the plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4-6″ above the ground to promote a second growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle carefully. Do not store at a temperature less than 50°F (10°C).