Holy Basil Seeds - Ocimum tenuiflorum/sanctum

10, 11

USDA Zones 10-11 - Grows as a tender perennial in these zones, where it is a popular herb garden plant. It is an annual in all other zones, as it is extremely sensitive to cold and will die with the first frost.

Best performance in Zones 4-11 when planted as a warm-season annual or kept indoors.

Northern Zones (2-9) - Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Do not transplant outdoors until all danger of frost has passed and night temperatures are consistently above 55F. Can be grown in a sunny window or under grow lights indoors for year-round harvest.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Can be direct sown or transplanted outdoors in the spring. Will thrive with a long, warm growing season.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil for germination. Sow seeds after the soil has warmed to at least 70F, with optimal soil temperature of 75-85F.

Growing Season - Requires 60-90 frost-free days to reach maturity when grown as an annual, but can be harvested sooner.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Holy basil is very sensitive to cold, so do not plant outdoors until all danger of frost has passed and night temperatures are consistently above 55F. You can also direct sow seeds outdoors after the soil has warmed to at least 70F.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Holy basil thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.

Starting Seeds:

Fill seed starting trays or pots with a high-quality, sterile seed starting mix.

Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep.

Lightly cover the seeds with soil and gently water to moisten the mix.

Place the trays in a warm, sunny location or on a heat mat.

Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7-14 days.

Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin to one plant per cell.

Transplanting Outdoors:

Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting to acclimate them to outdoor conditions.

Space plants 12-18 inches apart in the garden bed or in a container.

Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil.

Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing: Amend the soil with compost before planting. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month to support vigorous growth.

Pinching/Harvesting: To encourage a bushier plant and prevent the stems from becoming woody, pinch off the top leaves and flower buds regularly. This will also prolong the harvest.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Good air circulation is essential to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal issues.