Holy Basil Seeds - Kapoor - Ocimum tenuiflorum/sanctum

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 (Grown as an annual in zones 2-9; perennial in zones 10-12)

USDA Zones 2-12 - Thrives as a warm-season annual in most climates and as a tender perennial in frost-free zones (10-12). Success depends on providing the summer heat it loves and planting after the danger of frost has passed.

Best performance in Zones 5-11 where long, hot summers provide the ideal conditions for lush growth and maximum essential oil production, leading to a more fragrant and potent harvest.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date is highly recommended. Transplant seedlings outdoors only when nighttime temperatures are reliably above 50 degrees F to maximize the growing season.

Hot Climate Zones (9-12) - Plant in early spring for an abundant harvest throughout the summer and fall. In zones 10-12, it can be grown as a short-lived perennial, though leaf production is often most vigorous in the first year. Provide consistent water during the hottest periods.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil to sprout. Aim for a soil temperature of at least 65 degrees F, with an optimal range of 70-80 degrees F for fast and consistent germination.

Growing Season - Requires at least 90 frost-free days to reach full potential. It is a true summer herb that will flourish from early summer until the first frost in the fall.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:

Indoors: For the best head start, sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date.

Outdoors: Direct sow seeds only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 65 degrees F.

Where to Plant:
Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Plant in rich, well-draining soil. Amending your garden bed with compost before planting is beneficial. It's an excellent choice for raised beds and containers.

How to Plant:

Sowing: Holy Basil seeds require light to germinate. Do not cover them with soil. Gently press the seeds onto the surface of moist, prepared soil.

Spacing: Sow seeds a few inches apart. Once seedlings have their first two sets of true leaves, thin them to a final spacing of 8-12 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.

Germination: Keep the soil surface consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 5-10 days in warm conditions. Using a spray bottle is ideal to avoid dislodging the seeds.

Care Instructions:

Watering: Water regularly, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

Pinching & Pruning: When the plants are about 6 inches tall, pinch the top set of leaves off. This encourages the plant to branch out, resulting in a bushier, more productive plant. Continue to pinch off flower spikes as they appear to direct the plant's energy into producing more leaves.

Fertilizing: Holy Basil is not a heavy feeder. The initial compost amendment at planting time is often enough. If growing in a container or if leaves appear pale, you can feed with a balanced liquid organic fertilizer at half-strength every 4-6 weeks.

Harvesting:
Begin harvesting leaves when the plant reaches about 8-10 inches in height. You can harvest individual leaves or snip stems, always leaving at least two-thirds of the plant intact to ensure continued growth. The flavor is best before the plant begins to flower heavily. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried for the highest essential oil content.