Basil

Garden Help > Herbs

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a warm weather annual herb grown for both its leaves and seeds. There are many varieties of basil including Sweet, Thai, Lemon, Genovese/Italian, Purple Leaf, and Tulsi or Holy Basil. Growing techniques are common for most, although African Blue Basil is grown as a tender perennial and can be overwintered with care.

How to grow

• Type: Summer annual
• Light: Full sun; late afternoon shade is okay
• Soil: Well amended soil, good drainage
• Water: Needs regular watering, likes moist soil. Mulch soil to retain moisture
• Size: 8–24" high, 8–12" wide, depending on variety

When to plant/propagate

Basil leaves are tender and are damaged by temperatures below 40°F. Wait until weather is thoroughly warm before planting outdoors.

• From seed: Sow seeds indoors six weeks prior to transplant, March–May. Not usually seeded directly in the garden.
• Transplants: Plant seedlings April-June when soil is well warmed and danger of frost is past.
• Cuttings: Basil can be rooted from cuttings. In particular, African Blue Basil does not produce viable seeds, so must be propagated by cuttings taken in the late summer and overwintered in a warm location.

Harvesting

• For tender leaves, harvest frequently to encourage new growth and to prevent flowers from developing. Pinch off any flowers that do develop.
• For seeds or for attracting beneficial insects, allow flowers to develop.

Indoors

• Basil can be grown as an indoor plant in a south-facing window with a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight or fluorescent lights 6 inches above the plants for 14 to 16 hours a day
• Harvesting can begin in about 4-5 weeks

Common pests & diseases

• Earwigs
• Centipedes
• Bacterial leaf spot

Video

• Growing great basil (5/24/21) [1 hr]

More information: Garden Notes: Basil, UC Cooperative Extension, Sacramento County Master Gardeners

Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

See our list of Spring Garden Fair Herbs for varieties that we have found perform well here. 

^*Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.