Greek Basil

Basil

Zone 9b Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Upright

Fragrant and lush from the first pinch, Greek Basil unfurls into a dense mat of aromatic leaves with a cool, bright clove-and-cit…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 29th
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 23rd
Harvest Begins	May 12th
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
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

Debonair Dusty Rose Petunia

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Ocimum basilicum (Greek basil), and what should I do?

A frequent problem is downy mildew (often seen as yellow patches on upper leaves with gray-purple growth underneath) which spreads quickly in humid weather. Remove and destroy infected leaves, improve airflow by spacing plants, and water at the soil line in the morning to keep foliage dry. If it keeps spreading, treat with a labeled organic fungicide that targets downy mildew and follow the label intervals.

How often should I water Greek basil during peak growth, and what soil moisture level is best?

During the main growth phase, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly between waterings. In warm, full-sun conditions this is often about 1–2 deep waterings per week, but check by finger depth rather than the calendar. Use pots/raised beds with good drainage so excess water can run off quickly.

How do I know when Greek basil (Ocimum basilicum) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants are about 6–8 inches tall and have a full set of healthy leaves, typically around day 50. Take sprigs before flowering starts, pinching just above a pair of leaves to encourage branching. If you see flower buds forming, harvest immediately and lightly, because flavor quality drops as basil bolts.

Fragrant and lush from the first pinch, Greek Basil unfurls into a dense mat of aromatic leaves with a cool, bright clove-and-citrus lift. The foliage is tender yet substantial, forming velvety, medium-to-large leaves that hold their character beautifully from early harvest through peak growth. Grow Greek Basil for bold herbal flavor in fresh garnishes, fragrant sauces, and vibrant pesto-style blends—its signature scent makes every pot and plate feel instantly alive.

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 early and transplant only after nights are reliably warm to avoid stunting and to keep the compact form thriving in containers.