Growing Basil

Ocimum basilicum : Lamiaceae / the mint family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
      T                
      P P              

(Best months for growing Basil in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 18°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 25 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-12 weeks. Pick before flowering.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Tomato

Your comments and tips

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22 Mar 09, Mathew (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi all planted basil in half shade half sun so far grows average and plants are about 1 foot high after a month. Have been keeping well trimmed
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01 Feb 09, Gail Lamb-Hale (Australia - temperate climate)
Paul thank you for your tip on basil I will give it a go as I have not had much joy in growing basil Korumburra can be a bit up and down in weather patterns
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20 Dec 08, Paul Lehmann (Australia - temperate climate)
Basil is very hard to start from seed but I have found if you have a seed sprouting set and put them in there, they will eventually shoot. Pick out each sprouted seed on a toothpick and place in a pot with wet soil sitting in a tray of water to keep the soil moist. The sprouted seed will take to the soil and you can water as needed.
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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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