Napoletano Basil
60d to harvest
Fragrant as a sunlit piazza, Napoletano Basil unfurls with richly aromatic leaves that feel velvety to the touch and hold their lush, deep-green color through harvest. The flavor is bright and distinctly Italian—sweet, herbaceous, and unmistakably basil-forward—ideal for fresh bouquets of flavor and for making fragrant sauces, pesto-style blends, and aromatic finishing oils. Vigorous and dependable at about 60 days, it’s a standout for gardeners who want a steady supply of tender, high-scent leaves all season long.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 30th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 60 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during the main growing phase?
During active growth (roughly weeks 3–8 toward the ~60-day maturity), keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 1 inch (2–3 cm) of soil feels dry, typically every 2–4 days in full sun depending on container size and heat. Basil is sensitive to drought stress—wilting then drying repeatedly reduces leaf growth and yield.
How can I tell when Napoletano basil is ready to harvest?
Harvest Ocimum basilicum when plants are about 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) tall and have multiple sets of mature leaf pairs, usually around 50–60 days from sowing. Take cuttings just above a leaf pair (pinch the stem back), which encourages branching and more leaf production. Start with light harvesting once flowering begins to form; if buds open, flavor often declines, so harvest frequently to prevent full flowering.