Blue Spice Basil
60d to harvest
Aromatic as crushed blue-green leaves under warm sun—Blue Spice Basil delivers a cool, spicy fragrance with a distinctly sweet, herbal lift. The foliage forms lush, compact mounds of tender leaves with a velvety, lightly serrated texture, ideal for gathering at peak flavor around 60 days. Grow it for fresh leaf use, fragrant garnishes, and standout pesto and herb sauces, where its signature “blue spice” character shines.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Mar 4th |
| Last Frost | Apr 1st |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 27th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 26th |
| Harvest Ends | Nov 5th |
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 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Blue Spice Basil shows downy mildew (yellow patches under leaves and gray growth)?
Remove and discard affected leaves as soon as you see yellow spots and any downy gray growth on the underside. Increase airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line (not from above) to keep foliage dry. If it keeps spreading, treat with a labeled fungicide for basil downy mildew and follow the product’s reapplication schedule.
How can I tell when Blue Spice Basil is ready to harvest at about 60 days?
Harvest when plants have formed sturdy stems and at least several sets of mature leaves (about 6–8 inches tall), typically around 60 days. Pinch or cut just above a pair of leaf nodes to encourage branching, and expect the most flavorful leaves before the plant flowers. If you see buds forming, start harvesting more often but avoid stripping more than one-third of the plant in a week.