Genovese Compact Improved

Basil

60d to harvest

Aromas of sweet, bright green—clove-warm and gently peppery—rise from Genovese Compact Improved the moment you brush its leaves. This compact, bushy basil forms dense, tender foliage with a velvety, medium-green texture that’s ideal for fresh bouquets of flavor and for bold, aromatic sauces. Grow it for steady harvests over the season, with plants that stay neat and productive right up to 60 days from sowing.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 18th
Last Frost	Apr 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 13th
Harvest Begins	Jul 12th
Harvest Ends	Nov 5th

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

Lemon Gem Marigold

Polyvit Chive

Sunshine Cherry Tomato

Homestead Improved Tomato

African Marigold Marigold

Staro Chive

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during the main growing phase?

During active leaf growth, keep the root zone consistently moist but not soggy—water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. In full sun, this usually means watering every 2–3 days, but scale to container size and heat (containers may need daily). Use a deep soak so water reaches the lower roots, and stop frequent shallow watering that encourages surface roots.

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

Start harvesting once plants have enough growth to support picking—typically around day 50–60, when they’re well-branched with multiple sets of true leaves. Harvest by pinching or cutting just above a pair of leaves (usually 1–2 leaf sets below the top) to trigger new side shoots. Avoid waiting for flower buds, because leaves become smaller and more bitter as Ocimum basilicum begins bolting.