Basil Planting Guide
Aromatic culinary herb essential for Italian cooking
Flavor notes: Classic sweet, clove-like basil flavor.
Variety notes: Best all-purpose basil for pesto and fresh tomato dishes.
Best Time and Place to Plant Basil
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 15 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Basil in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 70F to 90F, and enough room for 10 inches between plants and 18 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | June 1 to June 30 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 20 to June 20 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 15 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 25 to June 5 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 20 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 15 to May 30 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | April 1 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 15 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 10 | March 1 to May 1 | Varies |
| Zone 11 | February 15 to April 30 | Varies |
| Zone 12 | February 1 to April 15 | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 10 inches apart, 18 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 70F to 90F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water when top inch of soil is dry, avoid overhead watering
- Days to harvest: 60
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Light feeding every 4 weeks
- Compost organic: 1 inch worked into soil before planting
- Worm Castings organic: 1/4 cup per plant monthly
Companion Plants
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Oregano
Avoid Planting Near
- Rue
- Sage
Harvest Signs
- Plant is at least 6 inches tall
- Pinch off top sets of leaves above a leaf node
- Harvest before flowering for best flavor
- Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth
Major Varieties
- Purple Opal Basil: Useful as both herb and edible ornamental.
- Thai Basil: Best for Thai, Vietnamese, and high-heat cooking.
FAQs
When should I plant Basil?
Basil planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 15 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Basil?
The best time of year to plant Basil is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 70F to 90F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 15 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Basil?
Plant Basil in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 70F to 90F, and enough room for 10 inches between plants and 18 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Basil?
Plant Basil about 10 inches apart, with rows around 18 inches apart.
What grows well with Basil?
Basil is commonly paired with Tomatoes, Peppers, Oregano.