Italian Basil
Protect from scorching afternoon sun. Prone to downy mildew in rainy season.
An upright, bushy annual with large, glossy, bright green, cup-shaped leaves. It is prized for its sweet, clove-anise fragrance and is the classic variety for Genovese pesto. Its sweet, bright flavor makes it the only choice for true pesto, Caprese salads, and finishing pasta dishes.
Cultivation
Sunlight
Partial Shade (4 hours morning sun). Protect from scorching afternoon heat.
Watering
Maintain consistent moisture. Water stress causes immediate bitterness.
Soil Mix
Rich, loamy, well-draining.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced NPK (15-15-15) bi-weekly. Prevents yellowing leaves.
Challenges
Downy Mildew causes yellowing with grey spore masses underneath. Leaves blacken if bruised.
Maximize airflow. Handle leaves gently. Keep away from cold drafts (AC vents).
