Basil – Ornamental Mixture

Basilius Magnus

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 60-90 days

Ease of Cultivation and Culinary Use: The Ornamental Mixture basil features a stunning blend of basil varieties known for their vibrant colors and unique foliage shapes. This mixture is not only easy to grow, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners, but also adds a beautiful visual element to gardens and containers. While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, the leaves can still be used in cooking, providing flavor to dishes such as salads, sauces, and pestos.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant Ornamental Mixture basil seeds outdoors after the last frost in rich, well-drained soil. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep, spacing them 12 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 5–14 days. Basil prefers warm temperatures and full sun, so ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as basil is sensitive to root rot.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start early, sow the basil seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with a high-quality potting mix, lightly pressing the seeds into the soil. Maintain a temperature around 70°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them about 12 inches apart to allow for their full growth.

Harvesting: To determine when the Ornamental Mixture basil is ready for harvest, look for plants that are 6–12 inches tall, typically ready within 60-90 days. Begin harvesting by snipping leaves from the top of the plants to encourage bushier growth. Regularly harvesting the leaves not only enhances the flavor but also promotes ongoing leaf production. For the best culinary experience, harvest before the plants flower, as the flavor can diminish once they go to seed.