How to Grow Organic Italian Large Leaf Basil Seeds:
Italian Large Leaf Basil is a fast-growing warm-season herb with big, sweet leaves. Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost, or direct sow outdoors once nights stay warm and soil is at least ~18–20°C (65–68°F). Sow seeds shallow—about 3–5 mm (⅛–¼ in) deep—then lightly cover and keep evenly moist. Germination is quick, usually 5–10 days in warm conditions. Give strong light right after sprouting to prevent leggy seedlings. Transplant or thin plants to about 20–30 cm (8–12 in) apart. Choose full sun (6+ hours) and rich, well-drained soil; basil grows best in fertile soil but hates cold, wet ground.
How to Care for Organic Italian Large Leaf Basil:
Water consistently—basil likes evenly moist soil, not soggy. Let the topsoil dry slightly between waterings, and mulch to keep roots cool in heat. Feed lightly: compost at planting plus a mild balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks in pots is plenty; too much nitrogen makes watery, less flavorful leaves. Pinch the top sets of leaves when plants are 15–20 cm tall to encourage bushiness; keep pinching regularly. Remove flower buds as soon as you see them to extend leaf production and boost flavor. Harvest often, taking no more than about one-third of the plant at once; frequent cutting keeps it productive. Watch for aphids or fungal issues in humid weather—good airflow and watering at soil level prevent most problems. Basil is very cold-sensitive, so protect from chill or grow in containers you can move if nights cool down.
