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Can You Grow Basil in Kentucky?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Kentucky last frost

mid-March

Kentucky first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Kentucky

Start indoors

Feb 14

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

Apr 14 – May 14

Dates are approximate, based on Kentucky'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 Kentucky

Kentucky has a humid continental climate transitioning to subtropical in the south. Long warm summers support tomatoes, peppers, and most common vegetables. Tobacco country.