Tuscany Basil

Basil

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Fragrant as a sunlit garden walk, Tuscany Basil releases a rich, sweet perfume with a cool, green lift that lingers on the air. L…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 20th
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

Hungarian Heart Tomato

Bishop's Crown Pepper

Golden Calwonder Pepper

Goliath Bush Tomato Tomato

Black Prince Tomato

Cherokee Chocolate Tomato

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common pest or disease problem on Ocimum basilicum (Tuscany Basil) and how do I stop it?

Watch for downy mildew and fusarium wilting, which show up as yellow patches or wilting that progresses despite watering. Start with disease-free plants, keep leaves dry (water the soil, not the foliage), and space plants so air moves through the canopy. If you see spreading leaf yellowing or sudden wilting, remove affected leaves/plants promptly to limit spread.

How often should I water Tuscany Basil during peak growth?

During the main growth phase (after seedlings are established), water deeply only when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry—typically every 2–4 days in warm weather. Ocimum basilicum prefers evenly moist soil, but it must not sit waterlogged; soggy soil accelerates root diseases. Mulch lightly to steady moisture, and avoid frequent shallow watering that keeps the root zone uneven.

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

Harvest when plants have multiple sets of leaves and stems are at least 6–8 in tall, with a healthy, bushy top—usually around 60 days from sowing. Pick by snipping the top 2–4 in just above a leaf pair to encourage branching, and avoid taking more than about one-third of the plant at a time. If flower buds start forming, harvest sooner (before full bloom) for the best leaf flavor.

Fragrant as a sunlit garden walk, Tuscany Basil releases a rich, sweet perfume with a cool, green lift that lingers on the air. Leaves are tender and velvety, forming an upright, lush mound of medium-to-large foliage that’s especially flavorful for fresh use and for turning into fragrant sauces and finishing oils. Grow it for its bold aroma and steady harvest over the season—your windowsill or raised bed will feel instantly more alive.

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

Warm soil matters—wait until nights are reliably above 50°F and pinch the first flush to encourage bushy growth for earlier, heavier leaf harvests.