Plant Basil in Zone 5a
Seed-starting, transplant & harvest dates for USDA Zone 5a
Start indoors
Mar 19
Transplant
May 14
Direct sow
May 14
Harvest (~60d)
Jul 13
In Zone 5a, the average last spring frost is around April. Basil is a tender crop, so give it a head start indoors about 6 weeks before that, then move it out after frost danger passes.
Last spring frost
Apr 30
First fall frost
Oct 3
Growing season
156 days
Full Basil grow guide → · All crops for Zone 5a →
Frequently asked questions
When should I start basil in Zone 5a?
Start basil seeds indoors around Mar 19 (Zone 5a).
Can I direct sow basil in Zone 5a?
Yes, direct sow around May 14.