Ocimum basilicum var. citriodorum

Sowing and growing guidance

Sow Ocimum basilicum seeds with steady warmth and strong light. Start indoors before last frost; transplant after last frost once nights are mild, or direct sow when soil is thoroughly warm. Provide full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile, warm soil. Keep seedling trays moist but not waterlogged; space plants per variety guidance to maintain airflow. Growth is compact to medium; pinch young tips to encourage branching and delay flowering. In frost-free, mild climates, a further sowing can provide a warm-season crop. Water consistently during dry spells and mulch lightly to conserve moisture, taking care not to smother stems.

• Container-suitable: Thrives in pots with free-draining potting mix and full sun; keep evenly moist in warm weather.
• Pollinator-friendly: If allowed to flower, blooms attract pollinating insects; reserve a few stems for late-season flowers.
• Edible: Leaves are edible; harvest lightly and often to maintain compact growth.
• Ornamental: Glossy foliage and delicate flowers add decorative interest in mixed plantings.

How do I grow lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum) from seed?

Sow lemon basil seeds indoors in warmth or outdoors when conditions are settled. Use a fine, moist seed-starting mix and sow on the surface, covering very lightly with vermiculite or sifted mix. Keep evenly moist, not waterlogged, and provide strong light to prevent lanky growth. Seedlings emerge in warm conditions within one to two weeks. When plants have 2–3 true leaves, prick out to individual cells or pots. Water gently at the base to avoid dislodging tiny seeds and keep air moving to minimize damping-off.

When should I sow basil and when is it safe to transplant after the last frost?

Start basil indoors with steady warmth well before the last frost so plants are ready to set out once nights are mild. Transplant after the last frost when soil is warm and nights reliably stay above about 10–12°C (50–54°F). Direct sow outdoors only when the soil is thoroughly warmed and not cold to the touch. In frost-free, mild climates, an additional sowing can be made for a warm-season crop. Harden off seedlings for several days before planting out to reduce transplant shock.

What is the best soil for basil seeds and young plants?

Basil prefers a well-drained, moderately fertile, warm soil. For sowing, use a light, free-draining seed mix; for planting out, enrich garden soil with a small amount of compost to improve structure without making it overly rich. Aim for neutral to slightly acidic pH. Avoid heavy, waterlogged, or cold soils, which slow growth and increase disease risk. Excessive nitrogen can produce lush growth with weaker stems, so feed lightly and focus on steady, balanced fertility.

What are basil’s germination and warmth requirements?

Basil germinates fastest at 21–27°C (70–80°F) and slows markedly below about 18°C (64°F). Provide bottom heat or a warm, bright spot to maintain this range until seedlings are established. Expect germination in roughly 5–14 days depending on temperature. Protect plants from chills; growth stalls if roots or foliage are exposed to cold drafts, and prolonged exposure to temperatures near 10°C (50°F) can cause stress. Keep moisture even—consistently damp but never soggy—during germination and early growth.

What spacing and container tips help lemon basil thrive?

Give basil full sun and space plants to allow good air flow; avoid crowding. Typical spacing for compact to medium varieties is about 20–30 cm between plants, with wider gaps for larger types. For containers, choose a pot with ample drainage; a 20 cm diameter pot suits one plant, while larger planters can accommodate multiple plants at similar spacing. Use a high-quality, free-draining potting mix and water when the top 2–3 cm of mix is dry, keeping seedlings evenly moist without waterlogging.

How should I pinch and harvest lemon basil for bushier plants?

Begin pinching when plants have 4–6 true leaves, removing the growing tip just above a leaf pair to encourage branching. Harvest regularly by taking short stem sections rather than single leaves, leaving at least one-third of the plant to continue growing. Removing early flower buds helps maintain leafy growth and a compact habit. Frequent, light harvests promote a bushier plant and a steady supply of tender leaves throughout the warm season.

Does basil attract pollinators?

Yes. When allowed to flower, basil produces nectar-rich blooms that attract bees and other beneficial insects. If the goal is continuous leafy growth, remove most flower spikes; if supporting pollinators is a priority, allow a few stems to bloom while continuing to harvest from others. This balanced approach maintains plant vigor, provides habitat value, and extends the productive life of the planting.

Growing guidance provided across the site is general and may vary with microclimate, soil structure, drainage, exposure, and cultivation method (beds, containers, protected environments). Local conditions, seasonal patterns, and management practices can affect timing and results. For each item, product pages include the specific sowing, spacing, and handling instructions, along with sourcing and compliance information relevant to that variety and supply. These specifics take precedence over general guidance.

Growing Notes for Lemon Basil

Ocimum basilicum var. citriodorum, commonly known as lemon basil, is valued for its bright citrus aroma and compact growth habit. Sow seeds after the last frost when soil is warm and workable; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible. For earlier plants, start under cover and transplant once nights are consistently mild. Provide full sun, a sheltered position, and well-drained, fertile soil. Sow shallowly, keep evenly moist without waterlogging, and space plants 20–30 cm apart to encourage airflow. Pinch growing tips to promote bushiness, and remove flower spikes to extend leafy growth. Regular, light harvesting supports continuous new leaves. Suitable for containers or beds, especially where heat and light are abundant. Seed batches vary, so checking packet guidance helps match local conditions and desired plant size. Further information on related varieties is available at SeedsChoice.