When to Plant Basil in Zone 5
In USDA zone 5a, start seeds indoors around March 24, transplant or plant outdoors May 19 to July 23, and expect your first harvest around July 23. (5a shown here — see 5a and 5b dates separately below.)
Basil planting calendar for USDA Zone 5a
Average last spring frost
May 5
Average first fall frost
October 1
Start seeds indoors
Mar 24
Transplant outdoors
May 19
Projected first harvest
Jul 23
Most basil mature in about 60 to 75 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 149 frost-free days in zone 5a.
Basil planting calendar for USDA Zone 5b
Average last spring frost
April 30
Average first fall frost
October 5
Start seeds indoors
Mar 19
Transplant outdoors
May 14
Projected first harvest
Jul 18
Most basil mature in about 60 to 75 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 158 frost-free days in zone 5b.
Not sure whether you're in 5a or 5b? Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
Varieties to grow
7 varieties of basil in the HomeSown library. Tap any for its full grow guide.
Common problems with basil
What to watch for, with identification and treatment for each
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