What month should I plant basil?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Understanding when to plant basil will dictate whether your growing endeavor is successful or not. Basil is a tender herb and needs to be planted at the right time based on the climate you are in. Planting too early puts the plant at risk of frost, while planting too late limits your growing and harvesting window. Your regional climate variations will make a universal planting date meaningless.
Basil can only succeed if nighttime temperatures consistently are above 50°F. This tropical plant does poorly in this environment. Soil temperature is just as important. Seeds require a minimum soil temperature of 60°F for germination, and transplants need the soil to be 65°F for optimal root growth initially.
Frost Protection
- Plant 2 weeks after last spring frost date
- Use cloches or row covers for unexpected cold snaps
- Monitor nighttime forecasts for first autumn frost
Soil Preparation
- Test drainage: dig 12-inch hole, water drains in 4 hours
- Amend with 3-inch compost layer before planting
- Use dark mulch to warm soil 5-8°F faster
Microclimate Tips
- Plant near south-facing walls for extra warmth
- Use windbreaks to shield from chilling breezes
- Container plants can move to sheltered spots
Your USDA hardiness zone provides the basis for determining when to plant. In warmer zones, longer growing periods mean you can plant earlier. In colder zones, timing is crucial for achieving success in growing. Inside your garden, you have microclimates that change the growing conditions once again. For example, south-facing slopes respond to warmth first. Low areas will accumulate more cold air.
Write down the actual dates of planting each season. Track the weather that affected the growth. This will serve as your custom planting guide. Every year, you can adjust according to your experience. Your garden journal will be your best timing tool.
Succession planting extends harvests significantly. New plantings are made every 3 weeks to ensure a continuous supply. Time for final plantings is 10 weeks before the first fall frost. This maximizes production while avoiding damage.
Read the full article: When to Plant Basil for Best Results
