How to Plant Basil From a Seed

Overview

Basil is a small shrub from the mint family, used to flavor food such as soups, salads, meats and Italian dishes. Basil thrives in full sun, yet will grow in partially shaded areas. It does best in well draining soil and some gardeners prefer to plant basil in raised beds, as that enhances drainage. Recommended soil pH is 6.4, according to Jeanine Davis, horticultural specialist at North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.

Step 1

Schedule the planting for the late spring, when all danger of frost has past.

Step 2

Till the soil, so that it is well worked. Lightly dampen the soil with a garden hose.

Step 3

Sow eight to 10 seeds per inch, scattering over the well-worked damp soil.

Step 4

Cover the seeds with a ¼- inch layer of peat moss and moisten.

Step 5

Keep the peat moss moist, not soggy.

Step 6

Thin the plants when they are several inches tall, removing the weakest looking seedlings and spacing the plants 10-inches apart.