Newton

Basil

60d to harvest

Fragrant as a warm summer breeze, Newton Italian Basil fills the garden with a vivid, sweet-anise lift and a clean, green snap. Leaves are tender and richly textured, forming an upright, lush mound that’s ideal for fresh use—its aromatic character shines in pesto-style sauces and bright finishing blends. Grow Newton for a steady harvest of fragrant foliage from early summer through the season’s peak.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 14th
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 20th
Harvest Begins	Aug 19th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Ocimum basilicum (basil) and how can I control it?

Watch for downy mildew and Fusarium wilt in basil, especially in humid weather or when leaves stay wet. Improve airflow by spacing plants, water the soil (not the foliage), and remove any yellowing or spotted leaves early. If problems spread, start over with fresh seed in clean soil and avoid replanting basil in the same spot for at least a season.

How often should I water sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) during peak growth?

During the main growing phase, water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, aiming for evenly moist—not soggy—soil. In hot weather this may be about 1–2 times per week, but adjust based on container size and rainfall. Consistently wet soil promotes stem/root issues, while letting it dry out too long can stunt growth and reduce leaf quality.

How do I know when Ocimum basilicum is ready to harvest (around 60 days)?

Harvest when plants are about 6–8 inches tall and have multiple sets of mature leaves, typically around 60 days from germination. Pick by snipping just above a pair of leaves to encourage branching, rather than cutting single stems down to the base. If you see flower buds forming, harvest frequently because leaf flavor declines as basil switches to flowering.