How to Grow Basil

Ready to grow Basil?

Order seeds from trusted suppliers.

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

🌱 Seed Starting Trays 🪴 Seed Starting Mix 💡 Grow Lights 🌡️ Heat Mat 🪵 Raised Garden Bed 🌍 Vegetable Garden Soil 🛠️ Hand Trowel Set 🚿 Watering Can

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Find Your Basil Planting Dates

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Ocimum basilicum

Category herb

Type Bush

Days to Maturity 60 days

Starting Method Start Indoors

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

💧

Water

Regular (keep moist)

↔️

Spacing

12" apart

🌱

Depth

0.25" deep

📏

Height

12-24"

🌱

Germination

5-10 days

Ready to Grow Basil?

Find quality seeds from trusted suppliers.

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🤝 Good Companions

TomatoPepperOreganoAsparagus

⚠️ Avoid Planting Near

RueSage

Basil Planting Calendar by Zone

Basil Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Basil? +

Start Basil seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Basil take to grow? +

Basil typically matures in about 60 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Basil indoors or direct sow? +

Basil should be started indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Basil need? +

Basil requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Basil? +

Space Basil plants 12 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Basil need? +

Basil has regular (keep moist) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

About Basil

Aromatic culinary herb essential for Italian cooking. Pinch flowers to encourage leaf growth.

Expect your Basil to be ready for harvest in approximately 60 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.