Herbs & Spices· Ocimum basilicum
Basil Growing Guide
Popular culinary herb with many varieties. Used fresh and dried. High value crop suitable for small-scale production.
How Long Does Basil Take to Grow?
Basil is typically ready to harvest about 60 days after planting.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, sandy loam
pH range: 6 - 7 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: excellent
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- Aphids
- Japanese beetles
- Slugs
- Spider mites
Common Diseases
- Fusarium wilt
- Downy mildew
- Damping off
Use AI crop disease detection to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Pinch flower buds to prolong leaf production
Harvest from the top to encourage bushiness
Plant after last frost when soil is warm
Use downy mildew resistant varieties
Rotate planting for continuous harvest
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Basil take to grow?
Basil typically takes 60 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 7 days. The best planting season is spring, summer.
What soil does Basil need?
Basil grows best in loam, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6-7. Excellent drainage is required.
What temperature does Basil need?
Basil grows best at 20-30°C. Frost tolerance: none. Heat tolerance: moderate.
What is the expected yield for Basil?
Across 4 countries with grounded data, reported national yields for Basil range from 2,000 to 40,000 kg/hectare, with a median of 25,500. These are national statistics, not a best-case figure — an individual farm's yield depends on variety, climate, soil and management. Multiple harvests per year are possible (4).
Key Agronomy Terms
Core farming concepts, explained in plain language.
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