When Is a Good Time to Plant Basil?

Planting Seeds Indoors

• Basil seeds can be started indoors four to six weeks before the last expected frost in your area. To plant basil seeds, scatter them on the surface of potting soil in a planting tray, then cover the seeds with 1/4 inch of potting soil. Place the seed tray under a fluorescent light, allowing 6 inches between the top of the tray and the light. Keep the soil lightly moist and maintain room temperatures at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Move each seedling into a small container when the first set of true leaves appear, then transplant the basil seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Planting Seeds in the Garden

• Don't be too eager to plant basil seeds outdoors, as basil is a tender annual that doesn't tolerate cold weather. Basil seeds are best planted in the garden in spring, when you're sure all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures have warmed to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant the seeds in a sunny spot, in soil that has been improved by digging in manure, compost or rotted leaves, then water carefully. Thin the basil plants when the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, allowing 8 to 12 inches between each plant.

Bedding Plants

• Purchase basil bedding plants at a nursery or garden center, then plant them outdoors when the weather has warmed to at least 70 degrees, with nighttime temperatures above 50 degrees. Dig a hole for each bedding plant, allowing 8 to 12 inches between each plant. Plant the basil at the same planting depth as the nursery containers, then firm soil gently around the roots. Water immediately.

Caring for Young Basil

• Keep the soil evenly moist when the seedlings are young. Once the seedlings are established, water basil deeply once every seven to 10 days, then allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again. The soil should never be allowed to remain soggy, nor should it become bone dry. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch keeps the soil moist and helps control weeds. No fertilizer is needed if organic material was added at planting time. Otherwise, fertilize basil once in spring, using a light application of a liquid or granular fertilizer. Pinch the tips of young basil plants to produce fuller plants.