Genovese Basil , native to Genoa, Italy , is a variety highly valued for its intense fragrance. Its glossy, embossed leaves are large and broad, offering a beautiful texture and a unique flavor. This basil is particularly interesting for cooking , especially for making the famous pesto alla Genovese , the iconic Italian recipe.

Genoese basil , another name given to this variety, is one of the essentials of Italian cuisine.

How to successfully sow basil

Basil requires a constant minimum temperature of 20°C to germinate, so it is recommended to sow your seeds in a hotbed or heated greenhouse . Start your seeds in early spring in pots . Choose a good, fine seed compost .
Do not press the seeds in, pack the potting soil into the pots or trays , then lightly brush the surface with your fingers. Place the seeds in the pot, sprinkle a little soil on top if necessary, and pack firmly.
Water with a spray bottle until the seeds germinate. Be careful not to over-moisten, as this could cause your seedlings to wilt. Germination occurs in 6 to 8 days on average.
Place your terrine or greenhouse near a bright window to ensure good development.

Planting basil in the garden

Plant your basil plants in the garden after the last frost in May when they have reached the 3-4 leaf stage. If you are north of the Loire , wait until June .
Plant your basil plants in well -drained , rich soil in a sunny location. You can add a little manure to encourage growth.
Keep 50 cm between each plant. Water without wetting the foliage and without overwatering.

Harvesting basil

Leaves harvested in May and June just before flowering will have the most fragrance, although you can harvest them year-round as long as the plant has leaves . The more leaves you harvest, the more the plant will grow.
To preserve your basil , chop the leaves and place them in ice cube trays filled with water. You can also preserve them in olive oil for longer use.

Garden Tips

Genovese basil , like other basil varieties, can be planted between tomato plants to protect them from certain pests .
All basils can also be grown in pots , planters , on a window or balcony , making it an ideal plant for small spaces.