Fast Facts
About Basil
Basil is a warm-season culinary herb grown for its fragrant, tender leaves. A few plants near the kitchen can supply frequent harvests for salads, sauces, and fresh garnishes. Its exact size and leaf shape depend on the basil variety in the packet.
When to Plant Basil Seeds
Basil is sensitive to frost. Direct-sow outdoors only after the final frost, when the soil has warmed and nights are consistently mild. For an earlier crop, start seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before you plan to move plants outside. Harden seedlings off gradually before transplanting.
Where to Plant Basil Seeds
Give basil a sunny position with roughly six to eight hours of direct light and soil that drains well. A container close to the kitchen works well if it has drainage holes and enough room for the roots. Shelter young plants from cold wind and keep the bed free of competing weeds.
How to Plant Basil Seeds
Moisten a fine seed-starting mix or prepared garden soil before sowing. Cover the seeds with about ¼ inch of soil and water gently so they remain in place.
Keep the seedbed evenly moist during germination. Once seedlings have two or three pairs of true leaves, thin or transplant them to roughly 6–12 inches apart, adjusting for the variety on your packet.
Move indoor-grown seedlings outside after frost and a gradual hardening-off period. Water them in well and use a light mulch after the soil has warmed to help retain moisture.
How to Harvest Basil
Once plants have several sets of true leaves, cut a stem just above a pair of leaves. Harvest little and often to encourage branching; remove flower spikes if tender leaves are your priority. Use leaves fresh, or freeze them for later cooking.
How to Care for Basil
Water deeply when the upper soil begins to dry; containers may need attention more often in hot weather. Pinch growing tips above a pair of leaves to create a bushier plant. Remove flower spikes if leaf production is your main goal, and protect basil from cold weather.
Companion Plants
Grow beside other kitchen herbs in separate containers when their watering needs differ.
Related Planting Guides
Growing details can vary by seed lot and climate. The exact basil variety is not specified; mature height and spacing may vary. Growing reference