Basil Growing GuideUpdated 8 days ago

Basil is a versatile, aromatic herb that thrives in warm weather and is a staple in many cuisines. Here’s how to successfully sow and grow basil:

When to Sow

• Outdoors: Sow basil seeds after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 70°F.
• Indoors: Start seeds 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant once the weather is consistently warm. For more planting tips, refer to when to plant basil.

Outdoor Sowing

• Choose a sunny, well-drained location.
• Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spaced 12-18 inches apart.
• Lightly cover with soil, water gently, and keep the soil moist. Germination typically takes 5-10 days. For additional tips, check out growing basil from seed.

Indoor Sowing

• Use seed-starting trays with well-draining mix.
• Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep trays in a sunny spot or under grow lights.
• Maintain moist (not waterlogged) soil. Transplant outdoors when seedlings develop true leaves and the risk of frost has passed. Learn more about growing basil indoors.

Care & Maintenance

• Light: Basil needs full sun (6-8 hours daily).
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging. For detailed watering tips, see how to water basil.
• Pruning: Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent early flowering. Remove flowers to maintain flavor. Check out how to prune basil.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Pests & Diseases

• Pests: Basil may attract aphids, whiteflies, and Japanese beetles. Use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
• Diseases: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Avoid overcrowding and water at the base of the plant.

Harvesting

• Begin harvesting leaves when the plant is 6-8 inches tall.
• Pinch leaves just above a pair of leaves to promote further growth. For optimal flavor, harvest in the morning before the sun warms the leaves. For more on harvesting, read how to harvest basil.

Garden Use

• Basil is an excellent companion for tomatoes and peppers, helping to repel harmful insects.
• It thrives in containers, making it perfect for patios or windowsills. For more tips on container gardening, see basil in containers.

Note on Purple Basil

Purple basil varieties may turn green in low-light conditions. Ensure plants receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight to maintain their deep purple hue. Immature seedlings might start green and turn purple as they mature.

If your purple basil seedlings appear etiolated (stretched), it suggests low-light conditions. Transition seedlings to full light gradually, over 1-2 weeks, to avoid shock. Consider raising the soil level if the container sides are shading the plants.