60 Days to maturity. Ocimum x africanum. Organic Lemon Basil Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom. Suitable for growing in fields, containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Lemon basil is a stabilized interspecific hybrid between Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum americanum. The leaves are smaller and more pinnate compared to sweet basil, with a distinctive lemony scent. It grows as an annual or short-lived perennial 18-20 inches tall. Used commonly in Southeast Asian cooking and appreciated for its citrus aroma and flavor. ~19,000 seeds/oz. Download Free Herb Growing Guide PDF Read Full Basil Herb Growing Guide Instructions Latin Name: Ocimum x africanum (syn O. basilicum x citriodorum) Hardiness Zone: Annual in zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Days to Maturity: 60-90 Days to Germination: 5-10 Seeding Depth: 0.25 inch Direct Sow: Yes Start Indoors: Yes, 6-8 weeks before transplanting. Plant Spacing: 9-12 inches Row Spacing: 12-18 inches Plant Height: 18-20 inches Plant Width: 9-12 inches Growth Habit: Upright branching Deer Resistant: Yes Soil Preference: Consistently moist, fertile, well-drained Temperature Preference: 65-80 F Germination Temperature: 68-70 F Light Preference: Full Sun Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to rot and mildew in overly saturated, heavy, and poorly drained soil. Basil does not have too many pests or insects and is generally seeded in the garden to help minimize pests. Organic Lemon Basil Color: Green leaves with tiny white flowers on spikes. Organic Lemon Basil Flavor: Slightly tangy, citrus overtones Garden Size: Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Container, Fields Climate Tolerance: Heat tolerant with adequate moisture. Growing Organic Lemon Basil in the Herb Garden Lemon basil is a warm-weather crop grown both indoors and out. For earliest starts, begin indoors 6-8 weeks prior to final frost. Plant 4-6 seeds .25 inches deep per cell or 3-4 inches apart in the garden in moderately moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Germinates in 5-10 days, thinning back to 1-2 plants per pot or every 9-12 inches in the garden as true leaves establish. Harden off seedlings if transplanting outside. Harvesting of Organic Lemon Basil The best time to harvest the leaves is in the morning. Harvest/prune the plants before they set flowers to encourage the plant to produce fresh leaves throughout the season. To prune the plant, remove the top several sets of leaves on each stem, taking care to leave at least three sets of leaves on the lower part. A shot of liquid nitrogen fertilizer, at pruning time, will help the plants recover. Make your final harvest before the weather drops below 40 F, as the plant will not survive the cold. About Organic Lemon Basil Garden Seeds Lemon basil pairs well with garlic, ginger, coconut milk, and various cheeses. In Southeast Asia, both the leaves and flowers are used in soups, slaws, and salads. Lemon basil is an annual plant in most climates, but may act as a short-lived perennial in frost-free zones. It prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some dry periods and is generally unappealing to pests like deer and rabbits. The oils from Lemon Basil leaves are full of antioxidants and are often used for healing and preventing skin damage Tips From Our Gardeners "Lemon basil is a favorite of pollinators. It attracts bees and butterflies." - Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer Organic Lemon Basil Seeds Per Package: 2 g packet - Approximately 1,250 Seeds .25 oz - Approximately 4,750 Seeds 1 oz - Approximately 19,000 Seeds 4 oz - Approximately 76,800 Seeds 1 lb - Approximately 304,000 Seeds 5 lb - Approximately 1,520,000 Seeds 25 lb - Approximately 7,600,000 Seeds Non-GMO Organic Lemon Basil seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
