Blue Spice Basil

Basil

Zone 11b Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Aromatic as crushed blue-green leaves under warm sun—Blue Spice Basil delivers a cool, spicy fragrance with a distinctly sweet, h…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	Apr 27th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

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

Chocolate Cherry Tomato

Ace 55 Tomato

Black Sweet Cherry Tomato

Window Box Roma Tomato

Stupice Tomato

Goliath Griller Tomato

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my Blue Spice Basil shows downy mildew (yellow patches under leaves and gray growth)?

Remove and discard affected leaves as soon as you see yellow spots and any downy gray growth on the underside. Increase airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line (not from above) to keep foliage dry. If it keeps spreading, treat with a labeled fungicide for basil downy mildew and follow the product’s reapplication schedule.

How often should I water Blue Spice Basil during peak growth to prevent wilting and stress?

During the main growing phase (roughly weeks 3–8 after sprouting), water deeply about 2–3 times per week, enough to moisten the top 1–2 inches of soil. Let the soil surface dry slightly between waterings, because consistently soggy soil encourages root issues while brief dry spells can cause leaf curl and bitterness. Aim for morning watering so leaves dry quickly, especially in warm, humid weather.

How can I tell when Blue Spice Basil is ready to harvest at about 60 days?

Harvest when plants have formed sturdy stems and at least several sets of mature leaves (about 6–8 inches tall), typically around 60 days. Pinch or cut just above a pair of leaf nodes to encourage branching, and expect the most flavorful leaves before the plant flowers. If you see buds forming, start harvesting more often but avoid stripping more than one-third of the plant in a week.

Aromatic as crushed blue-green leaves under warm sun—Blue Spice Basil delivers a cool, spicy fragrance with a distinctly sweet, herbal lift. The foliage forms lush, compact mounds of tender leaves with a velvety, lightly serrated texture, ideal for gathering at peak flavor around 60 days. Grow it for fresh leaf use, fragrant garnishes, and standout pesto and herb sauces, where its signature “blue spice” character shines.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start basil indoors early for the longest harvest window, but only transplant after nights stay consistently warm (basil is very cold-sensitive).