Bolloso Napoletano Basil, Organic

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange - This variety comes from Naples and is highly prized for its strong flavor. Giant rumpled 6 in. leaves are great for pesto, though the thick leaves are harder to dry than most. Vigorous 3 ft. plants are pest-resistant and slow to flower. 

Characteristics: 

• Organic, non-GMO
• Open-Pollinated 
• 3' tall plants
• Pkt (0.15 g, ~185seeds)

Instructions - Basil is a tender annual that prefers warm weather and rich soil. It is a popular culinary herb, cut flower, and can be used as a medicinal herb to calm the stomach. Basil needs well-drained but moist soil that is highly fertile. It is not drought tolerant, so even moisture levels are important for healthy growth. Start transplants indoors 6 weeks prior to planting out, or direct seed mid-spring through late summer. Basil is very sensitive to cold; use a row cover to extend the season. Pinch buds to encourage branching and leaf production. 

• Plant 1/4" deep. Transplanting is recommended; if direct seeding, sow 2-3 seeds per inch and thin to 4-8" apart. 
• Plant Spacing: Transplanting at 4-8" is recommended; if direct seeding, sow 2-3 seeds per inch and thin to 4-8" apart. 
• Row Spacing: 18" 

Harvest & Storage - Harvest can begin once plants have become established, by pinching or cutting branches but leaving the plant to continue to produce leaves. A harvest of the full plant should be completed just before the plant starts to flower (flavor is significantly impacted once flowering occurs). Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote a second growth. Store unwashed at room temperature to avoid browning. Do not store below 50°F. 

Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability