Seeds, Basil Dolce Fresca (West Coast Seeds)

After harvest, it rebounds to its previous tidy shape. The large leaves of Dolce Fresca are among the nicest Genovese basils. It looks fantastic in patio containers, or just growing in any well drained herb bed. Grow this basil in full sun during the warmest part of the year. Harvest regularly by pinching top-most pair of leaves from each stem. This will encourage bushy, vigorous growth lower on the plants and prolong the harvest window for each plant.

Season Warm season

Exposure Full-sun

Timing
Basil grows well in containers indoors at any time of year provided you can supply enough light. For outdoor growing, sow basil seeds throughout late spring for transplanting to the garden after the summer solstice. Or direct sow in early summer, once the soil has warmed up. Basil requires warm soil and full sun. Optimal temperature for germination: 21°C (70°F). Seeds should sprout in 5-10 days.

Starting
Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep in sterilized seed starting mix. Basil is prone to damping off, so once seeds sprout, make sure they are adequately ventilated, and kept under very bright light. Thin to 20-25cm (8-10″) apart. Using bottom heat speeds germination.

Companion Planting
Basil is said to improve vigour and flavour of tomatoes, planted side-by-side. It's also good with asparagus, oregano, and peppers. Basil helps repel flies, mosquitoes, and thrips.