SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Genovese

Basil

Planting Schedule

Add Genovese to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Genovese
60d to harvest

Fragrant as a sun-warmed green garden, Genovese Italian Basil unfurls with lush, medium-large leaves that feel velvety to the touch and hold their vivid color through the season. Its flavor is bright and sweet with a classic, aromatic lift—ideal for the signature green sauces and for fresh garnishing, where its tender texture shines. Grow it for a steady harvest of fragrant sprigs that make every bowl feel unmistakably Italian.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 30th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity60
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)10

Frequently Asked Questions


How often should I water Genovese basil during active growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?
During the main growing phase, water when the top 1 inch (2–3 cm) of soil feels dry, then water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone. Aim for evenly moist but not soggy soil—basil (Ocimum basilicum) performs poorly in continually wet conditions and can develop fungal leaf problems.
How can I tell when Genovese basil is ready to harvest?
Harvest when plants reach about 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) tall and have multiple pairs of healthy leaves, typically around 60 days from sowing. Pick by cutting above a leaf node (just above where leaves branch) so the plant can produce new shoots; regular harvesting delays flowering and keeps leaves tender.
Botanical illustration of Genovese

Fragrant as a sun-warmed green garden, Genovese Italian Basil unfurls with lush, medium-large leaves that feel velvety to the touch and hold their vivid color through the season. Its flavor is bright and sweet with a classic, aromatic lift—ideal for the signature green sauces and for fresh garnishing, where its tender texture shines. Grow it for a steady harvest of fragrant sprigs that make every bowl feel unmistakably Italian.