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Can You Grow Basil in Colorado?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Colorado last frost

early April

Colorado first frost

late October

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Colorado

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

May 7 – Jun 6

Dates are approximate, based on Colorado'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 Colorado

Colorado has a semi-arid mountain climate with intense sunshine and low humidity. Front Range cities like Denver are Zone 5-6; higher elevations are Zones 3-4.

See what grows well in Colorado →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in Colorado?

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

What zone is Colorado?

Colorado spans USDA Zone 5b (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Basils in Colorado?

Plant Basils around early April (start indoors Mar 10), harvest May 7 – Jun 6.