When to Plant and Harvest Basil
Aromatic culinary herb essential for Italian cooking
Winter survival: Will it survive winter? No outdoors. Basil is a tender annual. Bring plants in before nights linger near 50F, or start a windowsill tray from seed.
How many to grow for what you cook: Weeknight marinara, Basil pesto, Caprese salad, Ratatouille. Plate to Plot planner
Pets: Non-toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA). ASPCA lists sweet basil and Thai basil under this entry. ASPCA entry. Pet-Safe Garden Finder
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.
Related Planting Guides
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | June 1 to June 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 2 | May 20 to June 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 5 | April 25 to June 5 | Spring only |
| Zone 6 | April 20 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 7 | April 15 to May 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 8 | April 1 to May 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 9 | March 15 to May 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 10 | March 1 to May 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 11 | February 15 to April 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 12 | February 1 to April 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 13 | Year-round | Year-round |
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
Check any pair, and see which pairings have research behind them, on the Companion Planting Desk.
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
Track picks and rate the season on the Harvest Log.
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.
How long does Basil take to grow?
Basil is typically ready to harvest in about 60 days under good conditions. Use the harvest signs below rather than the calendar alone.
How do I know when to harvest Basil?
Harvest Basil when plant is at least 6 inches tall. Pinch off top sets of leaves above a leaf node Harvest before flowering for best flavor