Grow big flavor with a classic Italian favorite!
This basil means businessāwith oversized, aromatic leaves and a sweet, rich flavor, itās a must-have for pesto lovers, summer chefs, and anyone who dreams of a garden that smells like an Italian kitchen.
Variety: Italian Large Leaf Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Growth Habit: Annual herb
Height: 18ā24 inches
Flavor Profile: Sweet, rich, and slightly spicy
Color: Bright green, extra-large leaves
Planting Conditions: Full sun and fertile, well-drained soil
Harvest Timeline: Ready in 60ā75 days
Uses: Pesto, caprese salads, sauces, herbal teas, edible garnishes
Fun Fact: This variety often produces even larger leaves than Genovese basilāperfect for wrapping, stuffing, or blending into bold, flavorful sauces.
Italian Large Leaf Basil is the kind of herb that makes you want to cook barefoot in the garden. Its massive, fragrant leaves are perfect for layering in sandwiches, wrapping around mozzarella, or blitzing into a vibrant pesto. Itās a favorite for gardeners who love generous harvests and cooks who crave that unmistakable basil aroma. Whether youāre growing it in a raised bed or a sunny pot on the porch, this basil brings the bounty.
To Full Size
š Choose a Sunny Spot: Basil thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of light daily.
š± Sow the Seeds: Start indoors 6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep.
š§ Water Gently: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water at the base to avoid mildew.
š¾ Thin and Maintain: Thin seedlings to 6ā12 inches apart. Pinch off flower buds to encourage more leaf growth.
āļø Harvest: Begin harvesting when plants are 6ā8 inches tall. Regular picking promotes bushier growth.
For Microgreens
š± Prepare Your Tray: Use a shallow tray with drainage. Fill with seed-starting mix or coco coir.
š¾ Sow the Seeds: Scatter seeds evenly (8ā10 grams per 10"x20" tray). Lightly press into the surface.
š§ Mist and Cover: Mist gently and cover with a humidity dome or tray lid.
š± Germination (Days 1ā4): Keep in a warm, dark place. Mist daily.
š Light and Watering (Days 5ā10): Remove cover and place under grow lights or in a sunny window. Begin bottom watering.
āļø Harvest (Days 10ā14): Cut when microgreens are 2ā3 inches tall. Use fresh or store in the fridge for up to a week.