Now is a good time to sow Basil. Follow the sowing guide below.
Growing Calendar
This month: May
Log to journalStart seeds indoors this week
- •Fill tray with compost
- •Sow seeds evenly
- •Cover lightly with soil
- •Water gently
- •Place in warm light spot
Watch Out For
Cold temperatures below 10°C cause blackening and collapse
keep indoors until nights are reliably warm and never leave outside on cool evenings
Overwatering causes root rot
allow compost to dry slightly between waterings and use free-draining compost with good drainage holes
Aphids cluster on soft growing tips
pinch out affected tips and spray with a dilute soap solution; check plants weekly
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems — no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Basil in the UK
When can I put basil outside in the UK?
Basil can go outside from late May to June, once nights are reliably above 10°C and there is no frost risk. Even then, a warm, sheltered, south-facing spot is essential. Bring plants in if temperatures drop unexpectedly.
Why does my basil keep dying?
The most common causes are cold temperatures, overwatering, and poor drainage. Basil hates cold roots, wet soil, and draughts. Ensure pots drain freely, water only when the top of the compost feels dry, and keep out of cold draughts.
How do I stop basil going to seed?
Pinch out flower spikes as soon as they appear. Once a basil plant flowers and sets seed, leaf production slows and flavour decreases. Pinching out every week or two keeps plants bushy and productive throughout summer.
Is supermarket basil the same as garden basil?
Supermarket basil is grown in overcrowded conditions under stress — it is not the same as a well-established garden plant. Separate the plants, repot individually into good compost, and grow in good light for a much longer-lasting, more productive plant.
Member guides
There's more to growing Basil than this guide covers.
Seasonal reminders, deeper guides, and the small adjustments that change a harvest.