Sow seeds directly in late spring when nights are above 65˚F. Surface sow, pressing in firmly, keep moist but not wet. Start indoors 4-6 before warm evenings. Do not pinch buds to encourage further branching, this reduces plant vigor. Dry herb bunches by hanging from ceiling or lay on screens in a dark, dry, ventilated location. Harvest for drying at peak maturity when flowers are just beginning to appear, leaves contain the most essential oils at that time. Or, after that oils are transferred to flowers, strip the dried flower columns in fall for the best tea and to save seeds. Less frost sensitive than Ocimum basilicum. Can be ripened out doors in cool climates such as Skibbereen Co. Cork, Ireland. Soil pH 6.1-8.5. Hardiness zones 7-11. Annual.
Days from maturity calculated from the date of seeding. Average 22,400-142,000 seeds per ounce. There are no Federal germination standard commercially sold herb seeds. Usual seed life 3-5 years. Isolation distance for seed saving: 150 feet.
Planting Depth
1/4”Soil Temp. Germ.
70-85˚FDays to Germ.
7-14Plant Spacing
10-12”Row Spacing
18”Days To Maturity
80-100Full Sun,
Moist Well Drained