Prospera Compact DMR (Pl4) is an exclusive Genovese basil hybrid bred for disease resistance without sacrificing the classic flavor home gardeners crave. This F1 hybrid combines a naturally compact, bushy growth habit with resistance to both downy mildew and Fusarium wilt, two diseases that have historically frustrated basil growers. Ready to harvest in 74 days, it reaches full productivity quickly while staying manageable in size. The tight spacing requirement of just 4 inches apart makes it efficient for containers or small garden beds, letting you grow more plants in less room.
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Outstanding compact Genovese basil with both downy mildew and Fusarium resistance bred into a single, garden-friendly plant. The F1 hybrid vigor produces healthy, full plants at just 4-inch spacing, making it exceptionally efficient for small-space growers. Resistance to these two major basil diseases means fewer disappointments and more reliable harvests throughout the season.
As a Genovese basil, Prospera Compact is at home in Italian cuisine, particularly in pesto where its aromatic leaves shine. The leaves are fresh, fragrant, and suited to any application where fresh basil excels: garnishing pasta, brightening tomato dishes, infusing oils, or adding to fresh salads. The compact growth habit makes it especially practical for kitchen gardeners who want continuous supply from a small footprint.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before your transplant date. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and maintain soil temperature at 70°F (21°C) for best germination. Transplant seedlings to the field once they have developed 3 to 4 sets of leaves.
Move seedlings outdoors once they have 3 to 4 sets of leaves. Space them 4 to 8 inches apart, with final spacing of 4 inches producing the most efficient, full plants.
Direct seed in the garden by planting seeds 1/4 inch deep at a rate of 2 to 3 seeds per inch in rows 18 inches apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary for this variety.
Begin light harvesting once plants become established, working in the early morning when temperatures are cooler and leaves are less prone to wilting. Pinch or cut leaves carefully, as basil foliage bruises easily. Time your full harvest just before the plant begins to flower by cutting the entire plant 4 to 6 inches above the ground. This aggressive cutback encourages strong regrowth for a second harvest.
Pinch or cut leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent early flowering. Begin with light harvesting once plants are established, taking individual leaves carefully to avoid bruising. For a full rejuvenation harvest, cut the entire plant 4 to 6 inches above ground just before flowering; this promotes vigorous second growth.
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“Prospera Compact DMR (Pl4) is an exclusive hybrid development, likely created through deliberate crossing of Genovese basil lines selected for compact growth with disease-resistant germplasm. The designation 'DMR' (downy mildew resistant) and the Pl4 parentage reference point to a modern breeding effort focused on solving real problems that plague home and commercial basil growers. This represents contemporary plant breeding serving gardeners where heirloom varieties often fail.”