The lemon basil with its lemony aroma makes it perfect for teas, chicken, fish, veggies and more. These qualities make it excellent for use as an herb or a cut flower.
Seed Count: approximately 100 seeds
Height: 2-3’
Light Requirements: full sun, afternoon shade in hot southern climates
Soil Preference: regular, well-drained soil, pH 5.5-6.5
USDA Zones: 3-11 (annual)
Germination: 5-10 days at 65-70F
Seeding Depth: 1/4” depth
Plant Spacing: 8-10”
Days to Maturity: 60-90 days
Early-Season Seeding: Direct seeding is recommended and can be done after the last frost date or when soil temperature is above 65F. Start seed indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date, transplant after the danger of frost has passed.
Late-Season Seeding: Start seed indoors or direct seed outdoors at least 12 weeks before the first frost date.
Growing Tips: Plants may bolt (flower) when temperatures increase in summer or the plant is water stressed. Once it flowers the flavor profile will change. Regular watering will prevent this stress and is essential for a healthy crop.
Herb: It is best to harvest a few leaves when the plant has 3-4 sets of leaves. Once the plant grows 5-7 sets of leaves you can harvest the top of the stem which will encourage bushier growth. Leaves can be used fresh or dried in a cool, dark place. Do not store leaves in your fridge, temperatures below 50F will blacken the leaves.
Cut Flower: Harvest when 1/3 of the buds on a stem have opened. Harvest in the morning or evening since stems can wilt during mid-day. Stems will last 7-10 days without preservative.
Photos by @petitegreensaruba and @fionalovestocook and @steporr and @local_flowers
Plant every 30 days during the warm months-heat loving
Warm Season
The lemon basil with its lemony aroma makes it perfect for teas, chicken, fish, veggies and more. These qualities make it excellent for use as an herb or a cut flower.
Seed Count: approximately 100 seeds
Height: 2-3’
Light Requirements: full sun, afternoon shade in hot southern climates
Soil Preference: regular, well-drained soil, pH 5.5-6.5
USDA Zones: 3-11 (annual)
Germination: 5-10 days at 65-70F
Seeding Depth: 1/4” depth
Plant Spacing: 8-10”
Days to Maturity: 60-90 days
Early-Season Seeding: Direct seeding is recommended and can be done after the last frost date or when soil temperature is above 65F. Start seed indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date, transplant after the danger of frost has passed.
Late-Season Seeding: Start seed indoors or direct seed outdoors at least 12 weeks before the first frost date.
Growing Tips: Plants may bolt (flower) when temperatures increase in summer or the plant is water stressed. Once it flowers the flavor profile will change. Regular watering will prevent this stress and is essential for a healthy crop.
Herb: It is best to harvest a few leaves when the plant has 3-4 sets of leaves. Once the plant grows 5-7 sets of leaves you can harvest the top of the stem which will encourage bushier growth. Leaves can be used fresh or dried in a cool, dark place. Do not store leaves in your fridge, temperatures below 50F will blacken the leaves.
Cut Flower: Harvest when 1/3 of the buds on a stem have opened. Harvest in the morning or evening since stems can wilt during mid-day. Stems will last 7-10 days without preservative.
Photos by @petitegreensaruba and @fionalovestocook and @steporr and @local_flowers
Plant every 30 days during the warm months-heat loving
Warm Season
