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Can You Grow Basil in Rhode Island?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 6a, 6b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Rhode Island last frost

mid-March

Rhode Island first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Rhode Island

Start indoors

Feb 14

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

Apr 14 – May 14

Dates are approximate, based on Rhode Island'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 Rhode Island

Rhode Island has a humid continental climate moderated by the ocean. A small state with a single primary zone of 6b in most areas. Four seasons with a productive growing window.

See what grows well in Rhode Island →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in Rhode Island?

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

What zone is Rhode Island?

Rhode Island spans USDA Zone 6b (6a, 6b).

When do you plant Basils in Rhode Island?

Plant Basils around mid-March (start indoors Feb 14), harvest Apr 14 – May 14.