Basil seeds germinate best in warm soil temperatures, with the ideal range for germination falling between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C). However, the optimal temperature is typically around 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C).

Direct sowing is possible if you live in a warm climate. Otherwise start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to your last frost date.

Basil should be transplanted outdoors after the last expected frost date once the weather has warmed and the soil temperatures consistently reach at least 50°F (10°C) or warmer.

Full sunlight: at least 6-8 hours a day.

Space plants 8-12″ apart. Be sure to check the seed packet for specifics on your variety’s size. 

Basil thrives in warm temperatures, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). While basil plants can tolerate slightly cooler nighttime temperatures, they perform best when nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C). Basil is not hardy and will be killed by frost.

Keep the soil consistently moist.  Water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of diseases.

When basil plants have developed several sets of true leaves and are about 6 inches tall, start pinching off the top 1-2 inches of the main stem. This encourages lateral growth and stimulates the development of new branches. Regular harvesting throughout the growing season promotes bushier growth encouraging the plant to produce more leaves and slows woody growth. If your basil plant bolts (starts to produce flowers), pinch off the flower buds as soon as you see them, so the plant’s energy is focused back into leaf production. Failure to regularly prune will result in the plant becoming woody, reducing harvests.

To ensure the best flavor and continuous production of basil leaves, harvest basil leaves when they reach the desired size for your culinary needs and are still tender.

Basil is commonly propagated from seeds or through cuttings. When saving seeds from basil plants, it’s important to ensure that they have not been cross-pollinated. Different varieties of basil will cross-pollinate each other.

Basil is suitable for container growing. If grown in ground, basil can be saved before the first frost by either potting up the plant or growing a new plant from cuttings and keeping it in a warm environment for the winter. Basil can do well in a windowsill for easy access in the kitchen.