Genovese Nero

Basil

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Sink your senses into Genovese Nero’s deep, velvety foliage—an inky, near-black basil that releases a rich, classic aroma the mom…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 26th
Harvest Begins	Aug 25th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Purple Jalapeño Pepper

Aji Dulce Amarillo Pepper

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem commonly hits Ocimum basilicum (Genovese Nero), and how do I treat it?

Basil is frequently affected by downy mildew (grayish/fuzzy growth on leaf undersides) and, in warm humid weather, fungal leaf spots. Remove and discard infected leaves immediately, improve airflow around plants, and water at the soil level rather than wetting foliage; if the problem keeps spreading, switch to an appropriate copper-based or labeled greenhouse fungicide for basil and follow the label schedule.

How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during active growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

During the main growing phase, keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. In full sun, this often means about 1–2 times per week, increasing frequency in hot spells; deep, slow watering helps basil develop a steadier root system and reduces stress-related leaf drop.

How can I tell when Genovese Nero (Ocimum basilicum) is ready to harvest?

Start harvesting around 60 days when plants have multiple pairs of fully formed leaves and are tall enough to cut without stripping the stem. Pick by snipping the top sets of leaves just above a leaf node to encourage branching; if flower buds begin to form, harvest more promptly because leaf flavor declines as Ocimum basilicum shifts to flowering.

Sink your senses into Genovese Nero’s deep, velvety foliage—an inky, near-black basil that releases a rich, classic aroma the moment you brush the leaves. The plants form dense, upright clumps with broad, smooth leaves and a tender, succulent texture that stays lush through the season. Grow Genovese Nero for standout fresh flavor in pesto-style sauces, bright herb-forward garnishes, and aromatic finishing—its dark leaves lend a dramatic, garden-to-table elegance.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start basil indoors for a stronger early harvest, then transplant only after nights are consistently warm to prevent slow growth.