Basics

Ease of Growing
Easy
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
65-75 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
Bush
Hardiness
Very Tender

Basil is not at all hardy and can't stand any frost.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Summer
Growing Season
Short, Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Basil is very unhappy if it isn't warm, so in cooler areas it should be in the warmest spot in the garden. If this still isn't warm enough then grow it under cloches. It will tolerate some shade when growing in hot climates, but does better in full sun.

Outdoor Growing Temp
60°F - 90°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
70°F

Basil needs warm (75ºF - 85ºF) soil.

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
Moderate

Basil likes evenly moist soil.

Feeder
Light

Low nitrogen. Low potassium. Low phosphorous. Basil isn't a very hungry plant, but for maximum leaf production it should be given fertile soil.

Suitability
High heat, Partial shade
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

Basil does well in containers as small as a one gallon plant pot, and is great to grow on the kitchen windowsill (especially in cool climates). Transplant one seedling per 6" pot or 3 seedlings per 12" pot. Because basil is a heat-loving plant, it is crucial to place the container in an area with access to at least 4 hours of sunlight per day. Basil requires temperatures of 75 degrees F or higher in order to thrive, so it's not the best option for Winter growing (unless you keep your house well-heated.) Use well-drained, nutrient-rich potting soil and keep the soil moist but not overly wet.

Attracts beneficial insects?
Yes
Color
Green
Fruit Size
- "
Plant Height
12.0 - 20.0"
Plant Diameter
6.0 - 12.0"
Hardiness Zone
4-10
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Sweet Basil, usually used to make pesto.

Rotation Group
Leaves: Brassicas + Leafy Greens