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Can You Grow Basil in British Columbia?

Canada · Canadian Zone 8 · zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Grows well here

Basil thrives here — it loves the summer heat your zone provides.

Plant zones

4a–11b

British Columbia last frost

early March

British Columbia first frost

early December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in British Columbia

Start indoors

Feb 1

Transplant

Mar 1

Harvest

Mar 31 – Apr 30

Dates are approximate, based on British Columbia's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Basil

Basil is the quintessential summer herb — heat-loving fast-growing and endlessly productive when harvested regularly.

Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Pinch flower buds to keep the plant producing leaves. Never let it set seed. Water at the base — wet leaves cause disease. Loves heat.

Full basil growing guide →

Gardening in British Columbia

BC has dramatically different climates. The mild rainy coast (Zone 7-9) allows near-year-round growing. The interior is semi-arid (Zone 5-7) with hot summers and cold winters. One of Canada's most productive growing regions.

See what grows well in British Columbia →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in British Columbia?

Basil thrives here — it loves the summer heat your zone provides.

What zone is British Columbia?

British Columbia spans Canadian Zone 8 (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).

When do you plant Basils in British Columbia?

Plant Basils around early March (start indoors Feb 1), harvest Mar 31 – Apr 30.