SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Newton

Basil
Zone 11b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Newton to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Newton
60d to harvest

Fragrant as a warm summer breeze, Newton Italian Basil fills the garden with a vivid, sweet-anise lift and a clean, green snap. Leaves are tender and richly textured, forming an upright, lush mound that’s ideal for fresh use—its aromatic character shines in pesto-style sauces and bright finishing blends. Grow Newton for a steady harvest of fragrant foliage from early summer through the season’s peak.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 30th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity60
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)10

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Newton in Zone 11b typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Newton.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Ocimum basilicum (basil) and how can I control it?
Watch for downy mildew and Fusarium wilt in basil, especially in humid weather or when leaves stay wet. Improve airflow by spacing plants, water the soil (not the foliage), and remove any yellowing or spotted leaves early. If problems spread, start over with fresh seed in clean soil and avoid replanting basil in the same spot for at least a season.
How do I know when Ocimum basilicum is ready to harvest (around 60 days)?
Harvest when plants are about 6–8 inches tall and have multiple sets of mature leaves, typically around 60 days from germination. Pick by snipping just above a pair of leaves to encourage branching, rather than cutting single stems down to the base. If you see flower buds forming, harvest frequently because leaf flavor declines as basil switches to flowering.
Botanical illustration of Newton

Fragrant as a warm summer breeze, Newton Italian Basil fills the garden with a vivid, sweet-anise lift and a clean, green snap. Leaves are tender and richly textured, forming an upright, lush mound that’s ideal for fresh use—its aromatic character shines in pesto-style sauces and bright finishing blends. Grow Newton for a steady harvest of fragrant foliage from early summer through the season’s peak.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Newton in Zone 11b typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Newton.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 60°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

Start indoors for uniform, flavorful leaves, then transplant only after nights stay warm (basil is very cold-sensitive).