Lemon Basil
Mrs. Burns' Lemon Basil brings the bright, sweet-tangy essence of citrus to your herb garden through tender leaves that capture both basil's aromatic warmth and lemon's zesty brightness. This compact bush reaches 12-24 inches tall and delivers its first harvest in just 60 days from seed. Johnny's Seeds describes it as offering that perfect balance of sweet and tangy lemon flavor that transforms everything from summer salads to herb-infused oils.
12-18 inches apart
Full Sun
Moderate
10-11
24in H x ?in W
Annual
High
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This delightful basil variety combines the best of both worlds with its distinctive sweet and tangy lemon flavor that sets it apart from ordinary sweet basil. The compact bush habit makes it perfect for container gardens and small spaces, while its quick 60-day harvest time means you'll be enjoying fresh lemon-scented leaves all season long. The variety's reliable open-pollinated genetics ensure you can save seeds for next year's garden.
Mrs. Burns' Lemon Basil excels in culinary applications where both basil's herbal complexity and bright citrus notes are desired. The sweet and tangy lemon flavor makes it exceptional for herb-infused oils, vinegars, and fresh summer dishes where traditional basil might be too heavy and plain lemon basil too sharp.
Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost in seed starting mix, planting 1/4 inch deep and maintaining soil temperature at 70°F for optimal germination. Keep warm and evenly moist with good light source until seedlings develop 3-4 sets of leaves.
Transplant seedlings to the garden only after both day and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F in late spring. Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting, spacing them 4-8 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart.
Direct seed by planting 1/4 inch deep with 2-3 seeds per inch in rows 18 inches apart. Firm soil over seeds and maintain warm conditions with soil temperature at 50°F minimum for germination.
Begin light harvesting once plants are well-established, ideally in early morning when temperatures are cooler and leaves are less likely to wilt. Harvest by cutting stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to encourage lush regrowth. Complete a full harvest just before plants begin to flower by cutting the entire plant 4-6 inches above ground level to promote a second flush of growth.
Pinch off growing tips when plants reach 6-8 inches tall to encourage branching and bushier growth. Keep flower buds pinched off consistently to extend the harvesting period and promote continued leaf production.
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