When to Plant Basil in Washington

Growing Basil in Washington: Complete Guide

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Washington's last frost. Most Washington gardeners begin seeds indoors around Friday, December 26, 2025 and move transplants outside around Friday, March 6, 2026, after the risk of frost has passed.

Because Washington stretches across 9 USDA hardiness zones (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b), planting windows can shift by as much as six to eight weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 60 days to maturity, Basil needs the indoor head start that Washington's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Basil requires full sun (6-8 hours) and regular (keep moist) moisture. Most of Washington receives adequate sunlight during the growing season, though gardeners in humid eastern regions should watch for fungal issues and ensure good air circulation.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of Washington.