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Can You Grow Basil in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Mar 30 – Apr 29

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in New Mexico?

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

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Basils in New Mexico?

Plant Basils around late February (start indoors Jan 31), harvest Mar 30 – Apr 29.