When to plant or sow Basil?

Basil is a tender annual that cannot tolerate frost, so wait until all risk of cold weather has passed before planting outdoors. In temperate Europe, this means mid-May at the earliest, or early June in cooler areas. Choose a warm, sheltered spot in full sun—basil needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to develop its full flavour and vigour. A south-facing wall or patio provides ideal warmth and protection. Basil thrives in well-drained loam or sandy soil that warms quickly in spring. Heavy clay should be improved with plenty of compost or grit to prevent waterlogging, which quickly causes root rot. Dig over the planting area and rake in a general-purpose fertiliser or well-rotted compost a week or two before planting. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic. Space plants 25 cm apart to allow good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases. If you're planting out shop-bought seedlings or those you've raised indoors, harden them off for a week first by placing them outside during the day and bringing them in at night. Plant at the same depth they were growing in their pots, firm the soil gently around the roots, and water in well. Alternatively, sow seed directly outdoors from late May once the soil has warmed to at least 10°C. Sow thinly in drills 1 cm deep and thin seedlings to 25 cm apart once they have two true leaves. Water immediately after planting or sowing and keep the soil consistently moist until plants are established. A light mulch of compost helps retain moisture and warmth around young plants.