Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Also known as: genovese basil, sweet basil
Aromatic warm-season culinary herb. Frost sensitive. Pinch flower buds regularly to extend leaf production.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
6–8 weeks before last frost
Transplant Outdoors
1–9 weeks after last frost
Germination
5–10 days
Days to Harvest
30–60 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 3–11
Blackens at first frost. Harvest before flowering for best flavor.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (6)
Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Classic pairing; basil repels flies and mosquitoes near tomatoes
Confidence: High
Bell Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Repels aphids, spider mites, and thrips from peppers
Confidence: Medium
Eggplant
Solanum melongena
Repels aphids and spider mites from eggplant
Confidence: Medium
Marigold
Tagetes spp.
Both repel pests and attract pollinators together
Confidence: Medium
Oregano
Origanum vulgare
Aromatic herbs planted together concentrate pest deterrence
Confidence: Medium
Jalapeño Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Repels aphids and thrips from pepper plants
Confidence: Medium