If you’re planning on making pesto, grow several plants. For other uses, one or two basil plants yields plenty.

To get a jump on the season, start the seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last spring frost. 

To plant outside, wait until the soil has warmed to at least 50°F (10°C)—preferably around 70ºF (21°C) for best growth. Nighttime temperatures shouldn’t drop below 50°F (10°C).

Don’t rush basil. Without heat, the plant won’t grow well.

The many varieties of herbs are easy to grow and very prolific. Some are more hearty and shrub-like such as rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano; others are more delicate and prone to wilting or bolting when subjected to extreme heat such as dill, parsley, cilantro, and chives. Growing herbs such as mint or lavender in containers is beneficial because it won't have an opportunity to spread--as these tend to be invasive and difficult to rid your garden of. Herbs keep producing as long as you continue pruning and harvesting. They can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to any number of dishes.

COMMON PESTS: Aphids, Flea Beetles, Slugs

SUSCEPTIBLE TO: Bolting, Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, Anthracnose, Damping Off