Growing basil from seed outdoors – The alternative method for growing basil from seed is to sow seeds directly outdoors. I start my basil seeds indoors to give the plants a head start because I reside in a cold climate. Those who live in zones 6 and above may sow basil seeds directly in a garden bed or container outdoors.
- Choose a sunny location and incorporate a thin layer of compost into the soil.
- Plant the seeds in late spring or early summer, approximately one to two weeks after the last spring frost.
- Minimum soil temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21C).
- Sow the seeds one inch apart and a quarter of an inch deep.
Once the seeds have been planted, water the seedbed frequently with a gentle-setting hose nozzle. You do not want a strong stream of water that could dislodge or wash away the seeds or seedlings. Do not allow the soil to become dry while the seeds are germinating.
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This spring, are you growing basil from seed?
When can seedlings of basil be planted outdoors?
Basil – When to Plant – Start the seeds indoors six weeks before the last spring frost to get a head start on the season.(.) Wait until the soil has reached a temperature of at least 50°F (10°C) before planting outdoors, preferably around 70oF (21oC) for optimal growth. Nighttime temperatures shouldn’t drop below 50°F (10°C). Avoid rushing basil. Without heat, the plant will not thrive!
Step 2: Plant the Healthiest Seeds – Take one half and examine the plant cross-section. Some of the young plants will be larger and more robust than others. These are the ones you should focus on developing independently. Utilize the smaller plants for your next meal while removing and separating the larger ones.
How cold can basil seedlings survive?
Basil Cold Hardiness – Basil’s cold tolerance begins to deteriorate when the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is severely compromised at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 C.). Basil may not perish, but frost damage will be evident. Consider the cold tolerance of basil and wait until overnight temperatures are above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) before planting transplants.
If you plant them before temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit, you must either dig them back up or cover them to protect them from cold snaps. Additionally, it is recommended to place 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) of grass clippings, straw, or wood chips around the basil plants. This will aid in retaining moisture and inhibiting weed growth, while also protecting the plant from sudden, brief cold snaps.
Additionally, you can cover the plant crowns down to the soil to help retain heat. If the temperature drops significantly, a string of Christmas lights placed beneath the covered basil plants will help them retain heat. There may be some minor cold damage to the basil plants, but they will likely survive.
When to Plant Basil – Youngster sowing basil Getty 4/24/20 Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images is credited for this image. Catherine Delahaye/Getty Photographers Basil, a summertime herb, thrives in warm temperatures. If you are starting from seed, you will need to do so indoors.
Where is basil most likely to thrive?
Basil seedlings – Sowing basil seedlings Basil should be grown in well-drained, fertile soil in a warm, sheltered location away from direct midday sun. Basil should ideally be grown in a container for a harvest that lasts from early spring to mid-autumn.
On a warm, non-sunny windowsill, germinate your seeds in containers of moist, peat-free, all-purpose compost. When seedlings are large enough to be handled, transfer them to individual containers containing peat-free soil-based compost. After the last frost in early summer, place them outside. To acclimate them to outdoor conditions, place them in a sheltered, lightly shaded area outside during the day and bring them inside at night.
Perform daily for approximately two weeks. Watch Monty Don plant basil alongside tomato plants in this Gardener’s World clip: 
