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Can You Grow Basil in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Mar 30 – Apr 29

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Basils in North Carolina?

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