| Common Name | Basil (includes Aristotle, Bouquet Mix, Dolce Fresca, Everleaf Emerald Towers, Everleaf Genovese, Everleaf Thai Towers, Genovese, Holy, Lemon Sweet Dani, Green Columnar, Lettuce Leaf, Newton, and others) |
| Genus | Ocimum |
| Species | Ocimum basilicum and others (e.g. Ocimum tenuiflorum for Holy Basil) |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Life Cycle | Tender annual in most zones; perennial in USDA Zones 10-11. |
| Tray Size | 50 (half tray) |
| Plug Care | Harden off and transplant plugs promptly upon arrival to avoid stress or rootbound conditions. Maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging or drought conditions, as any stress at this young and vulnerable stage can impact the entire lifecycle of the plant. |
| Netting / Staking | Not required. Basil has a sturdy growth habit but may benefit from support if you are growing in an area with extreme winds. |
| Temperature Range | Thrives at temperatures of 70-85°F. Sensitive to frost; protect from temperatures below 50°F. This is a heat and sun loving plant. |
| Spacing | Space plants 12-18 inches apart, depending on variety, to ensure good air circulation and prevent overcrowding. You can attempt to plant more intensively at 6-8" spacing, but avoid overhead irrigation and monitor for leaf diseases especially on the lower branches. |
| Soil Preference | Prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Amend soil with organic matter for best results. |
| Day Length | Day-neutral; grows best in full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. |
| Pinching | Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage branching and increase harvestable foliage. Remove flower buds promptly to extend foliage production. When Basil is left to flower and set seed the plants begin to shut down production. |
| When to Plant | Plant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plants will sulk if planted into cold soil. For succession planting, transplant every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. |
| Harvesting | Harvest stems once they reach the desired length. Cut just above a leaf node to promote regrowth. Harvest early in the morning when the plants are most hydrated. |
| Post Harvest Care | Place stems in water immediately after cutting. Basil is prone to wilting; use clean water and change frequently. Floral preservatives can extend vase life, though basil typically lasts 5-7 days. |
| Diseases / Insects | Monitor for downy mildew, fusarium wilt, aphids, and spider mites. Ensure proper spacing and good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. |
| Bailey's Notes | Basil’s fragrant foliage adds a unique touch to mixed bouquets, especially the bright and highly aromatic varieties like Lemon Sweet Dani and Everleaf Thai Towers. For growers in cooler regions, consider using row covers or hoophouses to extend the season. Whether you’re harvesting for fresh use or drying, basil brings vibrant color, fragrance, and texture to arrangements. |
| Resources |
Clemson Cooperative Extension: Basil Growing Guide University of Minnesota Extension: Basil Pests and Diseases Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): Basil Care Tips |