Aristotle
45d to harvest
Fragrant, cool-sweet leaves unfurl with a distinctly Greek basil character—bright and aromatic, with a crisp, tender bite that feels almost velvety in the hand. “Aristotle” forms an upright, richly branching plant that yields an abundant harvest of deep green foliage, ideal for fresh use and for flavor-forward sauces and pesto-style blends. Grow it for its clean, lifted perfume and its steady, garden-to-jar performance through the season.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12b, 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 15th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 45 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Bush |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Aristotle during the main growing phase (around weeks 3–6)?
Water Aristotle so the top 1 inch of soil dries slightly between waterings, which typically means about 1–2 deep waterings per week depending on heat. During weeks 3–6, keep moisture steady—cracks or soggy soil can both disrupt development. Use a drip line or soaker to target the roots and reduce leaf wetness.
How can I tell when Aristotle is ready to harvest at about 45 days?
Harvest Aristotle when plants reach full size and the stems/heads show the expected maturity with firm, well-formed structure and no soft spots. For uniform timing, start checking daily once the crop is at 40–42 days—if you wait until the plant looks overly loose or starts to decline, quality drops. Cut or pull at maturity and harvest in the morning for best texture.