GROW GUIDE

ITALIAN BASIL

Ocimum Basilicum

Basil

Plant Description

A fragrant herb known for its bright green, oval-shaped leaves, often featuring a slight curve that cups slightly.

This culinary staple, originating from the mint family, is celebrated for its sweet, peppery flavor that adds depth to a wide array of dishes.

GARDENING LEVEL: EASY

Quick Facts

  • Sun Requirements

    Full Sun

  • Days To Sprout

    5-10 Days

  • Days To Harvest

    60-90 Days

  • Plant Spacing

    12-16“

  • Seeds Per Hole

    2-3

  • Plant Type

    Annual

  • Planting Depth

    1/4"

  • Germination Rate

    ~80%

Best Planting Locations

  • Windowsills

    Ideal For Small Herbs, Providing Adequate Sunlight.

  • Raised Beds

    Excellent For Outdoor Growth With Good Drainage And Soil Conditions.

  • Indoor Gardens

    Grow Lights And Hydroponic Systems Ensure Optimal Growth Conditions Year-Round.

  • Containers

    Patios Or Hanging Baskets, Allowing Easy Mobility And A Controlled Growing Environment.

Getting Started

  • 1

    Find the Spot

    Basil loves warmth and sunlight. Pick a sunny planting spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If indoors, a south-facing window is ideal.

  • 2

    Prep the Soil & Fertilizer

    Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Basil isn't very demanding, but for the best results, you can mix a little compost into the soil before planting or use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

  • 3

    Plant the Seeds

    Plant 2-3 seeds or 1 seedling 1/4 inch deep in pots or the ground. Space seedlings or plants about 12-16 inches apart to give them room to grow.

Companion Plants

  • Tomato:

    Enhances flavor, mutual growth support

  • Bell Pepper:

    Repels pests, boosts growth

  • Oregano:

    Repels pests, enhances flavor

  • Asparagus:

    Repels certain nematodes

  • Petunia:

    Repels aphids, beetles

Attractants

  • Butterflies:

    Attracted to basil flowers

Enemy Plants

  • Thyme:

    Needs different soil moisture level

Repellents

  • Asparagus Beetle:

    Dislikes basil's strong scent

  • Flies:

    Repelled by basil's aroma

  • Mosquitoes:

    Dislike basil's essential oils

  • Thrips:

    Repelled by basil's volatile compounds

Best Time to Plant

USDA Hardiness Zones

  • Zone 3:

    May - June (Start Indoors)

  • Zone 4:

    May - Early June (Start Indoors)

  • Zone 5:

    April - May (Start Indoors)

  • Zone 6:

    April - May (Can Start Indoors)

  • Zone 7:

    March - April (Can Start Indoors)

  • Zone 8:

    February - March

  • Zone 9:

    Jan - Mar, Sept - Oct (Avoid Summer Heat)

  • Zone 10:

    Dec - Feb, Oct - Nov (Avoid Summer Heat)

Day to Day Maintenance

  • Watering

    Water evenly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Basil doesn't like to sit in water. Remember, avoid wetting the leaves when you water, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

  • Pruning

    Once your basil plant is about 6 inches tall, start pruning the top leaves to encourage bushier growth. Always prune above a set of leaves to stimulate the plant to branch out.

The Harvest

  • Gathering

    Pick leaves as needed. The more you harvest, the more the plant will produce.

  • Extra Tip

    It's best to harvest in the morning when the plant's oils are strongest for the best flavor.

Favorite Uses

  • Pesto

  • Pasta

  • Fresh Fish

  • Cocktails

  • Lemonade

How to Store

  • Room Temperature

    • Duration: One Week
    • Location: Keep the jar on a countertop away from direct sunlight
    • Method: Treat basil like cut flowers. Trim the stems slightly and place the basil in a glass or jar of water, just like a bouquet. Make sure the leaves are above the water line to prevent rotting.

  • Refrigeration

    • Duration: One Week
    • Location: Store in the refrigerator
    • Method: Wrap the basil leaves gently in a slightly damp paper towel to maintain moisture but prevent the leaves from getting wet and soggy. Place the wrapped leaves in a plastic bag or an airtight container.

  • Freezing

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method (Whole Leaf): Blanch the leaves briefly in boiling water, shock them in ice water, pat dry, and then freeze them flat on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps preserve the color and flavor.

  • Drying

    • Duration: One year
    • Location: Warm, dry, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight
    • Method: Hang bunches of basil upside down or use a food dehydrator set to a low temperature.

Fun Facts

  • Natural Insect Repellent:

    Basil can act as a natural insect repellent, with its strong aroma particularly effective at warding off mosquitoes.

  • Welcome Committee

    In many cultures, basil is considered a symbol of hospitality and is planted near homes to welcome guests.

  • The Basil Family Tree

    There are over 60 varieties of basil, each with its own unique flavor profile, including lemon basil, cinnamon basil, and chocolate basil.

  • Plant of Love Potions

    Basil was once believed by the ancient Romans to foster love and provide protection, leading to its use in various rituals and potions.