Blue Spice

Basil

Zone 1a Save Garden

🌱 45d to harvest Upright

Aromatic as fresh blue-sky sun—Blue Spice basil fills the garden with a cool, peppery fragrance and a distinctly sweet, herbal bi…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	May 11th
Last Frost	Jun 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Aug 3rd
Harvest Begins	Sep 17th
Harvest Ends	Jul 15th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	45
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

De Arbol Pepper

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Hungarian Sweet Wax Pepper

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Sweet Italian Pepper

Eva Purple Ball Tomato

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage aphids or powdery mildew on Blue Spice plants?

In Blue Spice, check undersides of leaves weekly for aphids and act immediately with a strong jet of water, then repeat every 2–3 days for 1–2 weeks if needed. If you see powdery mildew (white, dusty patches), remove the most affected leaves, keep plants spaced for airflow, and water at the base so foliage stays dry; re-check after 5–7 days and repeat removal until it stops spreading.

How often should I water Blue Spice during the main growing phase?

During the main growth period (from just after transplanting until about 2 weeks before harvest), water enough to keep the top 1 inch of soil consistently moist but not soggy—typically about 1 inch of water per week, adjusted for heat and wind. If leaves wilt by midday, water deeply in the morning and let the surface dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot.

How can I tell when Blue Spice is ready to harvest?

Blue Spice is ready at about 45 days when pods/greens reach their labeled size and color, and the stems feel firm rather than rubbery. Harvest in the morning for best flavor—pick frequently once they start maturing, because delays can reduce tenderness and intensity.

Aromatic as fresh blue-sky sun—Blue Spice basil fills the garden with a cool, peppery fragrance and a distinctly sweet, herbal bite. Leaves are tender and richly textured, forming lush, upright mounds that hold their flavor beautifully for classic Italian-style uses, from pesto to bright finishing sauces and fragrant oil infusions. Grow it for that signature “blue” spice note that turns everyday meals into something garden-fresh and unforgettable.

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

Start indoors briefly for earlier flowering, then transplant after nights stay reliably warm to maximize fragrance and bloom set.