They are easy to grow but are very susceptible to cold weather. It
thrives best in hot weather. They should be planted in late spring after
all danger of frost is past. To produce high quality basil, grow it in
full sun in warm, well-drained soil. Raised beds are highly recommended
because they promote good drainage and warm quickly in the spring.
Basil may be cultivated either as a field-grown crop or in a greenhouse.
It can be propagated using seeds, cuttings or transplants, seeding or
transplanting to the field once seedlings are more advanced.
Germination can occur in 5 to 7 days, but will take longer under cool
conditions. Place plants outside12-15 inches apart. A light sand to silt
loam with a pH of 6.4 is best. The tender herbaceous annual, which is
susceptible to frost and cold-temperature injury, develops best under long
days, in full sun, and well-drained soils.
Basil will not tolerate moisture stress. Water needs to be applied
regularly throughout the growing season to maintain constant growth.
The whole herb, both fresh and dried.