How to Plant Basil: Seeds or Transplants for Kitchen-Garden Freshness

Plant basil from seed or plants to enjoy this delicious herb in cooking

Why Grow Basil?

Cooks prize fresh basil for countless recipes. It earns a prime spot in herb gardens and containers, indoors and out, for year-round harvest. Easy from seed or transplant.

From Seed

Step 1: Sow After Frost

Sunny location, average garden or potting soil. Cover seeds ¼ inch, space ~1 inch apart.

Step 2: Moisten Gently

Spray bottle for even moisture.

Step 3: Watch for Sprouts

Emergence ~1 week.

Step 4: Thin Seedlings

At 6 leaves, thin to 6–12 inch spacing.

From Transplants

Step 1: Plant After Last Frost

Sunny spot. Hole slightly larger than root ball.

Step 2: Loosen Roots

Gently tease edges of root ball.

Step 3: Set at Same Level

Match original pot depth.

Step 4: Firm and Water

Backfill, water generously, press soil firmly.

Two reliable paths to abundant, aromatic leaves all season.