Nufar

Basil

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Nufar Italian Basil unfurls with an aromatic, cool-weather perfume—bright, green, and unmistakably basil-sweet from the first pin…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 19th
Harvest Begins	Aug 18th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), and how can I control it at home?

Watch for downy mildew and basil downy mildew-like symptoms, which show up as yellow patches on upper leaves with gray-purple growth on the underside in humid conditions. Improve airflow (space plants, avoid wetting leaves), remove badly affected leaves, and if the problem persists, use a labeled fungicide that’s approved for basil in your area. Also control fungus gnats by letting the top layer of soil dry slightly between waterings.

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

During active growth, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly before watering again. In full sun, this often means watering about every 2–4 days, but adjust based on your container size and heat. Water at the soil level in the morning to prevent leaf wetness, which increases mildew risk.

How do I know when Ocimum basilicum is ready to harvest?

Start harvesting around day 60 (or sooner if plants are vigorous) when plants have multiple sets of true leaves and are at least 6–8 inches tall. Harvest by pinching or cutting just above a pair of healthy leaves to encourage branching; avoid taking more than about one-third of the plant at a time. Once flowering begins, leaf quality declines, so harvest regularly before or at the first signs of flower buds.

Nufar Italian Basil unfurls with an aromatic, cool-weather perfume—bright, green, and unmistakably basil-sweet from the first pinch. Leaves are tender and generously sized, with a smooth, velvety surface and a lush, upright habit that keeps foliage coming through the 60-day season. Ideal for fresh pesto-style sauces, fragrant garnishes, and bold flavoring in salads and finishing blends, Nufar’s leaves hold their character beautifully when used at their peak.

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

Because Nufar is a warm-season basil, wait for consistently warm nights and transplant on soil temps near 60°F+ to avoid stunting, especially in humid regions where disease pressure is higher.