Seed Count: Approx. 700 / Weight: 1.75 gms

Planting Instructions: Directly into the garden, when late spring weather reaches 55°F (10°C) both day and night, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart, which allows plants enough elbow room grow and mature.

To start early indoors, Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of fresh seed starting mix, 4 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. Feed with 1/2 strength liquid fertilizer every 10 days. Once weather warms outdoors, acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions, then transplant 8 inches apart into the garden.

It is critical to sow seed or transplant basil seedlings only when late spring day and nighttime temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C). Harvest sprays of leaves by snipping stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to encourage lush foliage. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting. Feed regularly with high nitrogen fertilizer after harvesting to promote new growth. Except in very short season areas, make a second planting three weeks after the first for a continued supply of fresh, aromatic leaves.