300 Sweet Basil Seeds – Ocimum basilicum Culinary Herb for Cooking & Gardening

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a classic culinary herb prized for its fragrant, tender leaves and versatile use in kitchens and gardens. This warm-season annual is easy to grow from seed and provides a steady supply of fresh basil for pesto, salads, sauces, and more. Its compact habit makes it suitable for garden beds, containers, and herb gardens, where it attracts beneficial pollinators with its small white flowers if left to bloom.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, sweet basil is a rewarding herb to cultivate. The plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and regular harvesting encourages bushy growth. With 300 seeds, you have plenty to start a generous herb garden or share with friends.

Plant Features

• Fragrant, bright green leaves ideal for fresh and dried culinary use
• Compact, bushy growth habit suitable for beds, borders, and containers
• Attracts pollinators when allowed to flower
• Easy to grow from seed; fast establishment in warm conditions
• Versatile herb for pesto, salads, sauces, and garnishes

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
• Plant Type: Annual herb
• Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–11 (grown as annual)
• Bloom Season: Summer (if allowed to flower)
• Mature Height: 12–24 inches
• Germination Requirements: Warm soil (70–85°F), light for germination; do not cover seeds deeply
• Spacing: 8–12 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow sweet basil seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or directly outdoors after the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface and keep moist; they need light to germinate. Maintain consistent moisture until seedlings emerge, then thin or transplant to the recommended spacing. Provide full sun and well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and pinch off flower buds to encourage leaf production. Harvest leaves from the top down to promote bushy growth. Sweet basil is sensitive to cold; protect plants if temperatures drop below 50°F. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh basil throughout the growing season.

What's Included

300 Sweet Basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum).