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Can You Grow Basil in Washington?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Basils in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 1 – Mar 31

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Basil in Washington?

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

What zone is Washington?

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

When do you plant Basils in Washington?

Plant Basils around late January (start indoors Jan 2), harvest Mar 1 – Mar 31.