Wild Magic

Basil

Zone 11b Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Wild Magic Italian Basil releases an unmistakably fragrant, sweet-green perfume—bright and herbal with a hint of warm spice—when …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 19th
Harvest Begins	Apr 20th
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

Peppadew (Juanita) Pepper

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Ocimum basilicum (sweet basil), and what should I do?

Basil commonly gets downy mildew and leaf spots, especially when leaves stay wet in humid weather. Water only at the soil line, space plants so air circulates, and remove any heavily spotted leaves immediately; if conditions stay wet, apply a labeled fungicide made for downy mildew/leaf blights and start before symptoms spread.

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

Keep the top 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) of soil evenly moist but not soggy as it grows toward the ~60-day harvest. Water about 2–3 times per week in warm weather (more often in containers), and reduce if the soil is still wet—basil roots dislike waterlogged soil and will decline.

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

Harvest when plants are about 6–8 in (15–20 cm) tall and have several sets of leaves, typically around 45–60 days after sowing. To encourage bushy growth, snip just above a pair of leaf nodes and avoid removing all foliage from a single stem—frequent harvesting delays flowering and keeps leaves tender.

Wild Magic Italian Basil releases an unmistakably fragrant, sweet-green perfume—bright and herbal with a hint of warm spice—when leaves are brushed or gently bruised. At about 60 days, it forms lush, upright mounds of tender leaves with a velvety, medium-thick texture that holds its character beautifully in fresh preparations and aromatic sauces. Grow Wild Magic for a garden-to-table basil that feels as vibrant as it smells, ideal for starring in classic Italian flavorings and finishing blends.

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

For best dark foliage and butterfly appeal, grow in full sun and transplant only after nights stay reliably warm so growth doesn’t stall.