Ocimum basilicum

How to Grow Basil

Basil is a deliciously fragrant, quick growing herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes, garlic and lemon. It is an annual in most areas, so it will die down in winter. Be sure to pick all the leaves before it does and dry or freeze them into butter cubes to make the most of your harvest!

Full Sun to Part Shade

Keep Moist

Fertile & Well-Drained

Can be Grown Australia-Wide

6 Weeks After Sowing

Plant in Spring to Autumn

How to Grow Basil in a Garden

Step 1

Choose a spot in your garden that is sunny, however basil will also do well in a partly shaded position.

Step 2

Sow seeds into well drained soil, enriched with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 3

Keep the soil moist and mulch with an organic mulch, such as sugarcane or lucerne. Feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food to promote lots of healthy green leaves.

Step 4

Water the base of the plant rather than the leaves to help prevent leaf diseases.

How to Grow Basil in a Pot

Step 1

Choose a spot in your garden for your pot that is sunny however basil will also do well in a partly shaded position.

Step 2

Sow seeds into quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Keep the soil moist and feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food to promote lots of healthy green leaves.

Step 4

Water in the morning at the base of the plant rather than the leaves to help prevent leaf diseases.

Basil Varieties

$4.20

$5.30

$4.20

$4.20

Basil Growing Tips

Pinch out the tips of plants to encourage a bushy habit and remove any flowers that start to form.
Harvest leaves regularly to encourage more foliage.
Feed regularly to promote an abundance of lush green leaves.
For maximum flavour, pick basil leaves in the morning after the dew dries, but before the day heats up.

Common Problems of Basil

Why is My Basil Dying Off in Winter?

Basil is best grown in the warmer months. They will die off in winter and are best replanted in spring.

Why Are My Basil Leaves Turning Brown?

When Basil is overwatered, if there has been heavy rain, or if they aren't getting enough sun and are sitting too wet, the leaves develop brown spots, the plant may start wilting, and the plant eventually rots.

Only water when the potting mix starts to dry out, and move to a warm, sunny and protected position.