The combination of potent flavor, strong aroma and easy care makes basil a popular herb, especially for Italian cooking. All basil varieties, including sweet basil, prefer sunny and warm weather (70-90 degrees) with well-draining soil. Give basil plants 1-2 inches of water a week. It likes consistent moisture, so use organic mulch to help retain water. Mulch also limits weed growth.

Basil is prone to pest infestations such as aphids, spider mites, Japanese beetles and slugs. Watch for signs such as sticky residue and holds in leaves. Yellow leaves are an early symptom of overwatering, while overhead watering and poor air circulation can lead to powdery mildew.

Although basil can be planted directly in the ground, starting seeds indoors will extend the growing season in colder regions, as basil takes 60-90 days from planting to be harvest-ready. Sow basil seeds a quarter-inch deep in seed trays 6-8 weeks before the final expected spring frost. Use a high-quality seed starting mix and keep the soil moist and warm (75-85 degrees). Place the trays in a sunny location and use grow lights if necessary. Once the seedlings sprout, thin them 6-8 inches apart.

Once the last threat of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches 70 degrees, it’s time to plant or transplant basil. Space seeds about an inch apart and thin later. Seedlings can be spaced 6-8 inches apart for a fuller look or 12-18 inches apart for better air circulation. Water the plants whenever the top layer of soil is dry.

Sweet basil is an excellent container plant. Use large, deep pots with all-purpose potting soil, especially if you’re putting multiple plants in one pot. Make sure the pots have drainage holes, and consider using terra cotta pots for extra air circulation.

Basil doesn’t require much fertilizer. The best plan is usually to add compost or manure to the soil when prepping it, then apply a half-strength fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. You can’t go wrong with balanced fertilizer, but a high-nitrogen formula can assist leaf growth, particularly in the later stages. For indoor and container plants, spray a diluted liquid fertilizer at the root zone every 4-6 weeks. Test the soil to determine if it’s deficient in certain nutrients that call for a different plan.

Because sweet basil loves heat so much, it is grown as an annual in all but the warmest climates (zones 10-12). For these regions, add a thick layer of mulch and/or frost blankets and row covers during the winter months. These methods can also extend the growing season in northern growing zones, but remove the plants from the ground before the first fall frost. If you are growing basil indoors, you can do so year-round.

To encourage bushy growth, pinch off stem tips in the early stages. Remove dead or damaged leaves and stems as needed. Basil is a “cut and come again” plant, so harvesting frequently will maximize yields and bushiness.

Basil can be harvested when plants are 6-8 inches tall. Pinch off individual leaves or cut stems with sharp, sterile scissors. To extend the shelf life, dry the leaves or store them in the freezer.