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Can You Grow Basil in Michigan?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Michigan

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

May 7 – Jun 6

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan'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 Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.