Dwarf Greek Basil
45d to harvest
Fragrant as a sunlit herb garden, Dwarf Greek Basil forms a compact, mound-like plant that releases a bright, sweet-anise perfume with every touch. Its small, tender leaves are richly aromatic and velvety in texture, holding their character beautifully for fresh garnishing and aromatic use in sauces, pesto-style blends, and herb oils. Grow it for quick, satisfying harvests—ideal when you want bold basil flavor in a neat, space-saving bush.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, 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 15th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 45 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Bush |
| 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
What pest or disease is most likely on Ocimum basilicum (dwarf Greek basil), and how can I treat it?
Basil commonly gets downy mildew and leaf spot in cool, humid conditions, often showing as yellowing leaves and gray/purple growth under the leaves. Remove and discard infected leaves, improve airflow (don’t crowd plants), and avoid watering the foliage—water only at the soil line. If it keeps spreading, use a labeled fungicide that’s approved for basil in your area and start after the first signs.
How can I tell when dwarf Greek basil (Ocimum basilicum) is ready to harvest?
Begin harvesting at about 40–45 days when plants are well-leafed and have multiple sets of true leaves. Pick when stems are firm and leaves are at a good size, using scissors to snip the top 1–2 pairs of leaves and just above a node to encourage branching. Don’t wait for flower buds—once flowering starts, leaf flavor can decline.