As a result of its genetic improvement research on basil, SAIS Seeds
has obtained Gentile (sa 1164), a protected variety, a Genovese-type basil characterized by leaf shape, plant vigor, and productivity that make it suitable to flank the Superbo and Gecom varieties in a wide variety of growing conditions and for a variety of commercial uses (from industrial, cut, bouquet, up to winter pot).
SAIS has returned to a classic type with an essential oil and aroma content very close to Superbo, medium bright green color, fast growth, and high leaf weight. The plant has medium internodes and is easily adaptable to various types of cultivation both in the greenhouse, soil and above ground and in open fields. In 2021 and 2022, the productivity and adaptability of Gentile were successfully tested in several farms, and it's a variety highly representative of the areas of production in Liguria, Lazio, and Sicily.
The company Aromatiche d'Autore
More specifically, we have verified the first results at the company Aromatiche d'Autore, which has specialized in the cultivation of aromatic plants for 20 years. The Autore company produces fresh-cut products to markets throughout the country and exports to other countries. They have assessed the variety under winter growing conditions in Sicily, greenhouses, and soil intended for cutting.
The company obtained high yields in terms of harvested product weight compared to other leading varieties in the market, and they noticed a good shelf life of the post-harvest product. "Given the excellent results, we are seriously considering the chance to expand the cultivated areas. We are very satisfied with the product that has shown reliability in terms of quality, yield, shelf life, and downy mildew resistance."
Expanded trials are now underway in different areas of basil production in above-ground (floating) cultivation in Lazio, in open fields for the processing industry, and in greenhouses for traditional bouquet production in Liguria.
Gentile represents a significant step forward in the varietal evolution of basil since its agronomic and organoleptic characteristics can be traced back to the traditional type with Italian taste and appearance, but it has a resistance to downy mildew that makes it a finally innovative product.
For more information:
S.A.I.S. Sementi S.p.a.
Via Ravennate 214
47521 Cesena (FC)
+39 0547 384250
sais@saissementi.it
www.saissementi.it