Whole plant
Overall shape, height, branching and growth habit.
Herbs
Basil growing guide
The classic companion for tomatoes both in the garden and in the kitchen. Aromatic herb that repels pests and attracts pollinators. Pinch out flowers to maintain leaf production.
Photo reference
Use this real-world photo as the main plant reference, then compare it with the botanical drawings below for leaf, flower and harvest details.
5-10 daysGermination
25-35 daysHarvest
25 cmSpacing
0.3 cmSow depth
FullSun
TenderFrost
2 cm/weekWater
6-7pH
Planting calendar by climate
Use these windows as a public guide. Plotera can personalise tasks around your saved garden, location and planting dates.
| Climate | Sow | Transplant / Plant | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tropical | Jan - Dec | Jan - Dec | Jan - Dec |
| Subtropical | Sep - Dec | Sep - Dec | Nov - Mar |
| Mediterranean | Sep - Nov | Sep - Nov | Nov - Feb |
| Temperate | Sep - Nov | Oct - Dec | Nov - Mar |
| Cool | Oct - Nov | Nov - Dec | Dec - Feb |
| Arid | Sep - Nov | Sep - Nov | Nov - Feb |
Botanical reference
Compare the whole plant first, then check the leaf, flower and harvest detail to identify what Basil should look like as it grows.
Leaf detail
Leaf shape, edges, colour and vein pattern.
Flower detail
Flower colour, structure and where blooms appear.
Harvest / detail
Fruit, root, seed, pod or the strongest identifying feature.
Cooking and eating ideas
A quick garden-to-table guide for using Basil after harvest.
Raw / fresh
Use fresh leaves raw as garnish, in salads, dressings, pestos, chutneys, teas, and herb sauces.
Cooked
Add near the end of cooking to soups, curries, stir-fries, eggs, noodles, or sauces to keep aroma bright.
Store / preserve
Freeze, dry, make pesto, herb oil, vinegar, infused salt, or paste.
Try: Fresh garnish, Pesto or chutney, Herb tea, Infused oil.
Good companions
Tomato, Capsicum, Eggplant, Asparagus
Avoid near
Sage
Growing note
Pinch out flowers immediately to keep plant producing leaves. Store fresh in water like flowers.
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