Soil requirements
- Average raised-bed mix. Too much nitrogen makes watery, less fragrant leaves.
Watering
- Water at the base. Basil downy mildew loves wet foliage in humid summers.
Sunlight
Full sun. A little afternoon shade in desert heat reduces stress.
Planting
- Transplant after nights stay above the 50s °F.
- Pinch above a leaf pair to make it bushy. Do not let it run to flower if you want leaves.
Spacing
- 8–12 inches. One per square is plenty next to tomatoes.
Common problems
Downy mildew
Yellowing and gray undersides. Airflow, dry leaves, resistant varieties.
Cold damage
It is not parsley. Wait to plant.
Helpful tools
- Bypass pruners or fingers for pinching
Product links will be added when independently researched. See the garden tools hub for buying criteria.
Frequently asked questions
Should basil go in the tomato bed?
It can. Keep it on the sunny edge so tomatoes do not shade it out by July. Companions are not magic pest control.