🌿 Growing Dolce Fresca Basil From Seed: Full Indoor Growth Record Under LED Lights
Dolce Fresca Basil is often described as a compact, productive basil variety that grows well in containers.
After growing it from seed myself, I found that—while it looks slightly different from Sweet Basil—the overall growth habit is very similar.
Still, it was fun to observe the entire process from seedling to flowering.
Below is my complete growth journal, with step-by-step photos.
1. Dolce Fresca Basil Seeds
I started with a Korean seed packet labeled Dolce Fresca Basil.
The seeds were small, dark, and round—typical basil seeds.
Photo: Seed packet and six basil seeds beside it.
2. Seedling Stage — Cotyledons and First True Leaves
The seeds germinated quickly under LED grow lights.
The cotyledons opened cleanly, and soon the first true leaves appeared.
Photos: Top view of seedlings and side view showing early growth.
3. Beautiful True Leaf Formation
Once the true leaves expanded, the plant became noticeably attractive.
Dolce Fresca leaves look slightly more rounded and compact compared to Sweet Basil,
but the difference is subtle—if you're not highly sensitive to basil varieties, it’s easy to miss.
4. Transplanting Into a Transparent Slit Pot
When the seedlings reached about 10 cm tall, I transplanted them into a transparent slit pot.
The roots adapted quickly, and growth accelerated.
Photo: A larger basil plant with dense foliage.
5. Vigorous Growth and First Pruning
As the plant became fuller, I pruned the main stem and removed the lower leaves to encourage branching.
This resulted in a bushier and healthier plant.
Photo: Post-pruning basil plant.
6. Flower Spike Formation
Eventually, a flower spike appeared at the top of the plant.
The tiny blossoms were pale and delicate.
Photos: Flower spike and an enlarged close-up.
🌱 Conclusion — What Readers Can Gain From This Guide
Growing Dolce Fresca Basil indoors shows that:
✔ Even compact basil varieties thrive under LED lights
✔ Transparent pots help monitor root health
✔ Regular pruning increases yield and plant lifespan
✔ Dolce Fresca is easy for beginners—even if its differences from Sweet Basil feel subtle
This guide is especially useful for beginners who want a reliable basil variety that grows predictably and looks beautiful throughout the season.
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