Pluto

Basil

50d to harvest

Pluto basil bursts with a lush, aromatic perfume—cool, green, and unmistakably bright—held in dense, compact foliage that stays tender through the season. Leaves are richly textured and velvety, with a classic basil sheen and a satisfying, supple bite that makes them ideal for fresh garnishing, fragrant sauces, and quick infusions of flavor. A warm-season favorite for gardeners who love a steady harvest from a neat bush form—50 days from sowing to abundant, garden-ready leaves.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10b, 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 20th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
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

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest is most likely on Ocimum basilicum (basil), and how do I control it at home?

On basil, aphids and whiteflies commonly cluster on new growth and can cause sticky honeydew or leaf curling. Rinse plants with a strong stream of water, then spray insecticidal soap (especially undersides) every 5–7 days until you see no new adults or nymphs. If leaves are already heavily damaged, remove the worst tips to reduce breeding sites while you treat.

How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

Water basil when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, aiming for evenly moist soil without waterlogging. In warm weather, this may mean every 1–3 days, but always adjust to your container size and rainfall. Consistently soggy conditions increase the risk of root problems, so ensure fast drainage and never leave pots sitting in runoff.

How can I tell when my Ocimum basilicum is ready to harvest around 50 days?

Harvest when plants are well established—typically around day 45–55—after they form multiple sets of leaves and the stems are firm. Use scissors to cut just above a pair of leaves (or pinch the top) before flowering for the best flavor, taking no more than about one-third of the plant at a time. If you see flower buds forming, start harvesting more frequently because quality drops as flowering advances.