Nufar

Basil

60d to harvest

Nufar Italian Basil unfurls with an aromatic, cool-weather perfume—bright, green, and unmistakably basil-sweet from the first pinch. Leaves are tender and generously sized, with a smooth, velvety surface and a lush, upright habit that keeps foliage coming through the 60-day season. Ideal for fresh pesto-style sauces, fragrant garnishes, and bold flavoring in salads and finishing blends, Nufar’s leaves hold their character beautifully when used at their peak.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11b, 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)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), and how can I control it at home?

Watch for downy mildew and basil downy mildew-like symptoms, which show up as yellow patches on upper leaves with gray-purple growth on the underside in humid conditions. Improve airflow (space plants, avoid wetting leaves), remove badly affected leaves, and if the problem persists, use a labeled fungicide that’s approved for basil in your area. Also control fungus gnats by letting the top layer of soil dry slightly between waterings.

How often should I water Ocimum basilicum during the main growing phase?

During active growth, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly before watering again. In full sun, this often means watering about every 2–4 days, but adjust based on your container size and heat. Water at the soil level in the morning to prevent leaf wetness, which increases mildew risk.

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

Start harvesting around day 60 (or sooner if plants are vigorous) when plants have multiple sets of true leaves and are at least 6–8 inches tall. Harvest by pinching or cutting just above a pair of healthy leaves to encourage branching; avoid taking more than about one-third of the plant at a time. Once flowering begins, leaf quality declines, so harvest regularly before or at the first signs of flower buds.