Basil: An Herb Society of America Guide

Outdoor Cultivation

Transplanting to the Garden

The soil temperature and pH recommended for sowing seeds also applies to transplants. Susan Belsinger points out that the time to transplant will vary by region, with northern gardeners moving plants outside later (8). Madalene Hill, who gardens in Texas, always transplants after the Easter holiday and points out that since Easter occurs at a different time each year it can be a good "indicator of the weather" (44, 45).

Spacing for transplants will vary based on species/cultivars, since some species are much larger than others. As a general rule, most basils can be spaced 1-2 feet apart, but James Adams and Tina Marie Wilcox suggest that some smaller cultivars, like 'Piccolo,' can be planted even closer together (1, 84). Susan Belsinger generally grows about forty basil plants, spaced 2- 2 1/2 feet apart (8). Tina Marie Wilcox spaces larger species, like O. gratissimum and O. selloi, 3-4 feet apart (84). Spacing is important to maintain proper air circulation (1, 51).

Some gardeners, like Susan Belsinger, plant with the lunar cycles. Susan points out that since basil is an above ground crop, it should be planted (sown or transplanted) with the waxing moon, (first or second quarter new moon to full) (8). See the Containers section for more information on transplanting.

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