Lime

Basil

60d to harvest

Aromatic as fresh lime zest, this basil variety brings a bright, citrus-lifted fragrance that rises from every leaf. Tender, medium-green foliage forms an upright, bushy habit with a smooth, velvety texture and a clean, sweet-herb flavor that shines in fresh garnishes and fragrant sauces. Grow it for a steady harvest of flavorful leaves from early summer through the season’s warmest stretches.

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’s a common disease problem for Ocimum basilicum (lime basil), and how can I prevent it?

A frequent issue is downy mildew, which shows as pale yellow patches on the upper leaves with gray-purple growth on the underside. Improve air circulation (space plants, avoid crowding) and water at the soil line early in the day to keep foliage dry. If you see it, remove affected leaves and discard them, then avoid harvesting wet foliage for a few days to slow spread.

How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during its main growth phase?

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly between waterings. In warm, full-sun conditions, this is often about 1–2 waterings per week, but adjust so water penetrates the root zone rather than just wetting the surface. Mulch lightly to reduce evaporation, especially if leaves start to wilt during the hottest part of the day.

How do I tell when Ocimum basilicum is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants reach about 8–12 inches tall and have several sets of true leaves (usually around 60 days). Pinch or cut above a leaf pair to encourage branching, and start with light harvesting early, then take fuller harvests once the plant is well-leafed. If flowering starts, harvest promptly and prune back to maintain leaf quality and tenderness.