How to Grow Basil from Seed
If you’re dreaming of fresh, fragrant basil right from your own garden or windowsill, you’re in luck—basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow from seed. Not only is it simple, but starting from seed gives you the chance to explore dozens of unique varieties you won’t often find as starter plants in stores.
Here’s everything you need to know to grow basil from seed like a pro—even if you’re just getting started with gardening.
Two Easy Ways to Start Basil Seeds
There are two main options for planting basil seeds:
Indoors: Start seeds on a sunny windowsill or under a grow light, a few weeks before your last expected frost.
Outdoors: Sow seeds directly in your garden or container once the weather is warm and frost-free.
Whichever method you choose, the key is warmth and sunlight.
Location
Basil is a sun-lover! It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Take a good look at your outdoor space and pick the sunniest spot. If you’re planting in containers, a bright windowsill or balcony works great too.
When to plant: Wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area. Basil loves warm weather and doesn’t do well in the cold.
The Best Soil for Basil Seeds
Healthy soil is the foundation of strong plants. When growing basil from seed, use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Look for ingredients like:
Peat moss or coconut coir (for water retention)
Perlite or vermiculite (for drainage)
A small amount of compost or organic fertilizer
The goal is soil that holds moisture without getting soggy, which helps develop strong, healthy roots.
The Right Temperature for Germination
Basil seeds need warmth to sprout. Aim for a soil temperature of 70–75°F (21–24°C). At this temperature, seeds usually germinate within 5 to 10 days.
If you’re starting seeds indoors, use a seedling heat mat to help maintain consistent warmth and boost germination rates.
Step-by-Step: How to Plant Basil Seeds
Sow your seeds about ¼ inch deep in moist soil.
Keep the soil evenly moist—not wet—until the seeds sprout.
Once seedlings appear, thin them so each plant is spaced about 3 to 4 inches apart.
When seedlings grow their first 2–3 sets of true leaves, thin again to leave 6 to 12 inches between each plant. This gives them room to grow into lush, leafy herbs.
Growing basil from seed is easy, fun, and incredibly rewarding—especially when you get to harvest your own fresh leaves for pesto, salads, or homemade pizza. Whether you have a big backyard or just a sunny window, you can grow basil almost anywhere with a little sun, warmth, and care.
