- 1). Plant basil seeds in early spring once the threat of frost passes. For Zone 5, plant the seeds after April 15--the last likely freeze date. Generally, May 15 to Oct. 1 includes 170 frost-free days, but frost can occur at any time. Protect your basil from frost by wrapping towels or blankets around the plants to keep cold air from coming into contact with the herbs.
- 2). Choose a location that receives direct sunlight. Basil plants need full sun to grow.
- 3). Use soil that holds moisture and drains well. Space the basil plants in such a way that they will remain at least 6 inches apart when mature (refer to seed packaging for mature height and width of the variety you've chosen). Cover the seeds with a ¼ inch of soil.
- 4). Take time to thin the rows once the basil plants grow a few leaves. Keep the rows 6-12 inches apart with pruning shears. Once the seedlings grow 6 inches tall, begin pinching off the tops to promote leaf growth. Remove any flowers that grow on the basil plant to keep the leaves flavorful.
- 5). Harvest the basil plants at the end of the growing season. The end of the growing season in Zone 5 occurs around Oct. 15. You'll pick basil leaves throughout the season to promote healthy growth, but at the end of the growing season, cut the stems and freeze them for winter use.
- 6). Water the basil plant every 7 to 10 days. Add fertilizer to the plant once a month.
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