Pesto Besto™ Sweet Italian Basil

Pesto Besto™ is a vigorous sweet Italian basil grown for aromatic, edible leaves and regular harvests. Proven Winners describes its upright habit, strong resistance to downy mildew and late, occasional flowering; the plant reaches 18–30 inches tall and spreads 12–24 inches. This Ocimum basilicum selection is a useful choice for a sunny edible border or substantial container, according to [Proven Winners](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/ocimum/pesto-besto-sweet-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum). ## Garden use Plant Pesto Besto where its foliage can be harvested often: near a kitchen, in an herb bed or in a patio pot with room for its mature spread. The leaves work fresh or cooked and are especially suited to pesto. Its green foliage and upright shape also combine well with flowering annuals and other edible plants. ## Growing Give the plant full sun and average garden soil with dependable moisture and drainage. Proven Winners lists USDA hardiness zones 10a–11b and characterizes the plant as an annual. In cooler climates, grow it during the warm season and protect it from frost. Allow roughly 12–18 inches between plants for airflow and access, while accounting for the larger mature spread. ## Maintenance Harvest stem tips regularly; cutting just above developing side shoots encourages tender new growth. Pesto Besto is usually slow to flower, but occasional flowers may appear. Pinch them if continued leaf production is the priority. The breeder recommends starting seed indoors about six weeks before the last frost and transplanting after temperatures remain above 65°F. See [Proven Winners’ growing notes](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/ocimum/pesto-besto-sweet-italian-basil-ocimum-basilicum).