🍽 Overview
Crop: Basil
Common Varieties in OK: ‘Genovese’, ‘Thai Basil’, ‘Lemon Basil’, ‘Purple Ruffles’
Planting Season: After last frost (late April–May); grows all summer
Days to Maturity: 60–75 days (but leaves can be harvested much earlier)
🎨 Trait Legend
Trait Symbol Meaning
🟨 Warm-season Thrives in heat, very frost sensitive
🌿 Leaf crop Grown for aromatic leaves
🟩 Full sun Prefers 6+ hrs sun, but tolerates part shade
✂️ Cut-and-come-again Regrows well after trimming
📏 Spacing & Soil
Row Spacing: 18–24 inches
Plant Spacing: 10–12 inches
Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile; pH 6.0–7.0
Fertilizer: Light feeding — too much nitrogen reduces flavor
🌱 Cultivars We Recommend
‘Genovese’ 🟨🌿✂️
Classic Italian basil. Large, sweet leaves. Great for pesto.
‘Thai Basil’ 🟨🌿✂️
Spicy, licorice flavor. Great in curries and stir-fries.
‘Lemon Basil’ 🟨🌿✂️
Bright citrus aroma. Excellent for teas and seafood.
‘Purple Ruffles’ 🟨🌿✂️
Ornamental and flavorful. Deep purple leaves. Adds visual pop.
🧠 Tips
Pinch back early to encourage bushy growth
Remove flower buds unless saving seed — flowering reduces flavor
Water consistently but avoid soggy soil
Harvest frequently to keep plants productive
Can be grown in pots or raised beds — great near the kitchen