Holy Basil

Basil

60d to harvest

Fragrant and unmistakably aromatic, Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) fills the garden with a cool, peppery-sweet perfume that lingers in the air as the leaves sway. Expect tender, medium-green foliage with a softly textured, slightly fuzzy feel, and a bold flavor profile that shines in aromatic infusions and fragrant seasoning blends. Grow it for its lush, upright habit and its abundant leaf harvest potential—an elegant, high-scent addition to any home herb patch.

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 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Ocimum tenuiflorum (holy basil), and how can I control it?

Look out for downy mildew and leaf spot, especially when leaves stay wet from overhead watering or humid air. Water at the soil line, space plants for airflow, and remove badly spotted leaves early. If new lesions keep appearing, spray a labeled copper-based fungicide according to the label and repeat at the interval specified.

How often should I water holy basil during its main growth phase?

During active growth, keep the top 1–2 inches of soil lightly moist but not soggy; holy basil performs best with consistent moisture and good drainage. Water deeply when the surface starts to dry, typically about every 3–5 days in warm weather, but reduce frequency after rainy periods or in cool conditions. Avoid wetting foliage because moisture on leaves promotes fungal issues.

How do I know when Ocimum tenuiflorum is ready to harvest?

Harvest starting around 50–60 days, once plants are well branched and have developed multiple healthy leaf pairs per stem. For the best flavor and to encourage new growth, pinch or snip just above a set of leaves rather than cutting into bare stems. Take the main harvest before flowering fully opens; once flowers start, leaf quality and aroma typically decline.