Sweet Basil Seeds (Organic)

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is the classic culinary basil, prized for fragrant, sweet, slightly peppery leaves. A tender annual and slow-bolting variety with broad, uniform dark-green leaves, it makes wonderful pesto and is a great choice for market growers.

At a glance

• Variety: Sweet Basil, organic, non-GMO
• Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
• Days to maturity: 70 to 80 days
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing after thinning: 8 to 10 inches
• Planting depth: 1/4 inch
• Seeds per pack: About 250
• Height at maturity: 12 to 24 inches

Best for

• Pesto, salads, soups, and herbal teas
• Garden beds, containers, and windowsills
• Market growers wanting a slow-bolting basil
• Beginning gardeners and cooks

How to grow

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep once soil warms to 75 to 85 degrees, with germination in 5 to 10 days. Grow in full sun in well-draining soil and thin to 8 to 10 inches apart. Pinch and prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and to delay flowering, which keeps a steady supply of tender leaves coming.

Flavor profile

Sweet and aromatic with a slightly peppery note, ideal fresh in pesto and Italian dishes.

About Grow Organic

Grow Organic, also known as Peaceful Valley, has supplied seeds, tools, and growing supplies to organic gardeners and farmers since 1976.