Lime Thai

Basil

Zone 9b Save Garden

🌱 65d to harvest Upright

Lime Thai basil opens with a bright, zesty lift—cool lime-green fragrance that feels almost citrus-sparkling, followed by classic…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 19th
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 30th
Harvest Begins	Jun 3rd
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	65
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 commonly affects Ocimum basilicum (Thai basil) and how can I control it?

Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum) is commonly hit by downy mildew and aphids, especially when foliage stays wet. Water at the soil line and improve airflow by spacing plants; remove and discard any badly spotted leaves early. For mildew, stop overhead watering and treat with a labeled fungicide suitable for basil; for aphids, rinse off with a strong jet of water and, if needed, use insecticidal soap on the undersides of leaves.

How often should I water Thai basil during the main growing phase to keep it thriving?

During active growth, keep the top 1–2 inches of soil consistently lightly moist, not soggy—typically watering about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and container size. Aim for deep watering so moisture reaches the root zone, then let the top layer begin to dry slightly before watering again. Avoid letting leaves remain wet, as damp foliage increases mildew risk.

How do I know when Ocimum basilicum (Thai basil, “Lime Thai”) is ready to harvest?

Start harvesting around 50–65 days from sowing when plants are well branched and reach roughly 6–12 inches tall, and before they set heavy flower. Pick when leaves are fully sized and fragrant; pinch or snip just above a pair of leaves to encourage new side shoots. If the plant begins flowering, leaf flavor and tenderness decline, so harvest frequently during that transition.

Lime Thai basil opens with a bright, zesty lift—cool lime-green fragrance that feels almost citrus-sparkling, followed by classic Thai basil warmth. The leaves are tender and glossy, with a softly serrated edge and a lively, aromatic texture that holds beautifully in fresh bouquets and quick stir-tosses, while also standing up to gentle heat for fragrant sauces and pickles. Grow Lime Thai for a garden that smells like sunlit citrus and for harvests that stay vivid, fragrant, and unmistakably Thai in character.

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

For best flavor, grow in full sun and pinch off early flower buds once plants are established to keep leaves tender and aromatic.