The information on this page applies to seedlings sold by LEAF Nursery during our 2021 Seedling Sale.
Ocimum basilicum. Thai basil is a beautiful, highly ornamental basil with 3 inch leaves, purple stems and purple blossoms. Its distinctive flavor combines the clove-mint of basil with sweet aromatics of the East. Use for cooking, herbals and essential oils. The young shoots have a more subtle flavor than the mature leaves. Use leaves fresh or dried in cooking, herbals and essential oils.[1]
Seed Type
| Organic | Heirloom | Non-GMO | Hybrid | Open-pollinated | Untreated |
Additional Information
| Container Friendly | Trellis Needed | Easy to Grow | Pollinator Friendly |
When to Plant your Seedling
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Growing Conditions
| Light | Temperature | Soil | Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sun to part shade | 70 F (soil) | Well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter | Keep soil evenly moist |
Planting Tips
| Plant Spacing | Plant Size | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|
| 12" | 12" | 80-90 days from seed |
- Additional instructions: Water regularly and do not over fertilize. Pinch the stem tips to encourage branching.
- Plant basil with your tomatoes and it will improve the growth and flavor of your tomatoes. Basil also does well with peppers, oregano, asparagus and petunias. This herb has been known to repel flies and mosquitoes but should not be planted next to rue or sage.(1)
- Harvesting instructions: Just before the flowers open, cut individual stems above small side shoots which will grow later. Strip leaves and use fresh. Add to dishes at the end of cooking to preserve the flavor. Hang whole plants or leafy in a cool dry spot until completely dried and then remove leaves and store in an airtight container.[1] For most tender leaves, harvest frequently to encourage new growth and to prevent flowers from developing. Pinch off any flowers that do develop. For seeds, allow flowers to develop. Many beneficial insects appreciate basil flowers, so consider allowing some plants to flower[3]
Common Diseases and Pests
- Earwigs, centipedes, Bacterial leaf spot[3]
Useful Resources
- https://bbbseed.com/product/herb-basil-thai-org/ (Seed Source)
- https://www.botanicalinterests.com/product/Basil-Sow-and-Grow-Guide
- http://mgsantaclara.ucanr.edu/garden-help/herbs/basil/
If you bought this seedling and have any questions or feedback, let us know in the comment section below.