600 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 the kitchen. This warm-season annual is easy to grow from seed and thrives in garden beds, containers, and herb gardens. Its compact habit and vigorous growth make it a favorite for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Sweet basil adds a fresh, aromatic touch to pesto, salads, sauces, and many Mediterranean dishes. The plants also attract beneficial pollinators when allowed to flower, making them a useful addition to vegetable and herb gardens.

Plant Features

• Fragrant, bright green leaves with a sweet, slightly peppery flavor
• Compact, bushy growth habit suitable for beds, borders, and containers
• Easy to grow from seed and quick to establish in warm weather
• Attracts bees and other pollinators when in bloom
• Versatile culinary herb for fresh and dried use

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: Bushy, upright
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–11 (grown as annual)
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Mature Height: 12–24 inches
• Germination Requirements: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep at 65–70°F; keep moist until germination
• 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. Lightly cover seeds with soil and keep evenly moist. Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin or transplant to 8–12 inches apart. Provide full sun and regular watering, avoiding overhead watering to reduce leaf disease. Pinch back flower buds to encourage bushy leaf growth and extend the harvest.

For continuous supply, succession sow every 3–4 weeks. Harvest leaves as needed, starting from the top of the plant. Sweet basil grows well in containers and can be brought indoors before the first frost for extended use.

What's Included

600 Sweet Basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum).