Thai Gardens

Basil

45d to harvest

Fragrant as a warm breeze, ‘Thai Gardens’ basil unfurls with bright, peppery-anise lift and a clean, lingering sweetness. Its tender leaves are glossy and finely textured, forming an upright, richly branched plant that stays flavorful for weeks—ideal for fresh use and for stirring into aromatic sauces, quick wok-style dishes, and fragrant garnishes. Grow it for its bold Thai basil character: aromatic, lively, and beautifully vigorous in the garden bed or pot.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 17th
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jul 10th
Harvest Begins	Aug 24th
Harvest Ends	Sep 24th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	45
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

Recommended Companions

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Staro Chive

Celebrity Tomato

San Marzano Redorta Tomato

Polyvit Chive

Taishan Yellow Marigold

Frequently Asked Questions

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

During active growth (roughly weeks 2–6), keep soil consistently evenly moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly between waterings. In full sun, this often means watering about 1–2 times per week, more frequently in hot weather, and always adjusting based on how fast the top inch dries. If leaves wilt and then recover quickly in the evening, you’re likely under-watering; if stems stay wet or leaves yellow, you may be over-watering.

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

Harvest when plants are about 35–45 days old and have developed multiple sets of true leaves (typically 6–8 inches tall), before flowering starts. Pick by pinching or cutting above a leaf pair to encourage branching, and harvest in the morning when leaves are fullest and most aromatic. If you see flower buds forming, harvest immediately to slow flowering and extend production.