Choose a sunny location (6–8 hours of direct light)
Use well-draining soil (loamy, compost-enriched)
Start from seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost or sow after frost
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep evenly moist
Thin seedlings to 8–12 inches apart (or transplant to that spacing)
Water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging
Water at the base of the plant to reduce leaf diseases
Maintain warm temperatures (basil prefers 70–90°F / 21–32°C)
Pinch or trim the growing tips once plants have 4–6 true leaves
Fertilize lightly every 3–4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (or compost top-dress)
Keep weeds down to reduce competition
Mulch lightly to help retain moisture (optional)
Protect from cold and frost; bring containers indoors if needed
Harvest by pinching leaves or cutting stems above a leaf pair
Harvest regularly to encourage bushy growth
Prevent flowering by pinching flower buds if you want more leaves
For containers: use a 6–10 inch pot per plant, with drainage holes and fresh potting mix
Watch for pests (aphids, whiteflies, spider mites) and treat promptly
Watch for fungal issues (downy mildew, leaf spots); improve airflow and avoid wet foliage
In-ground: prepare beds with compost before planting and keep soil consistently moist
In late season: harvest heavily before cold weather and compost old plants