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Can You Grow Basil in Pennsylvania?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Pennsylvania last frost

early April

Pennsylvania first frost

late October

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Pennsylvania

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

May 1 – May 31

Dates are approximate, based on Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. Philadelphia is Zone 7a; Pittsburgh is Zone 6a; northern Pennsylvania is Zone 5a-5b. Four distinct seasons with a 6-7 month growing window.