Greek Columnar Basil

Basil

60d to harvest

Aromatic as fresh-cut summer air, Greek Columnar Basil fills the garden with a bright, sweet herbal fragrance and a clean, lightly peppery bite. Its upright, column-like growth forms dense, tender leaves with a smooth, velvety texture that stays flavorful from first harvest through repeated cuttings. Grow Greek Columnar Basil for standout fresh use and for stirring into fragrant sauces, finishing oils, and quick pick-me-up infusions that showcase its signature basil character.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 12th
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 6th
Harvest Begins	Jun 5th
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bush
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

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

San Marzano Gigante 3 Tomato

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Greek Columnar Basil during the main growing phase to keep it healthy?

During active growth, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for the top 1 inch (2–3 cm) to dry slightly before watering again. In full sun, this is often about 1–2 times per week, but adjust so you never see prolonged wilting or soggy soil. Water at the base of the plant to prevent damp leaves, which increases the risk of mildew.

How can I tell when Ocimum basilicum (Greek Columnar Basil) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants reach about 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) tall and have formed plenty of pairs of mature leaves, typically around 60 days. Pinch or cut just above a leaf pair to encourage branching, and harvest in the morning when leaves are crisp and aromatic. If you see flower buds forming, harvest again promptly but expect reduced leaf production as the plant shifts to flowering.