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Can You Grow Holy Basil (Tulsi) in British Columbia?

Canada · Canadian Zone 8 · zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Grow indoors

Grow in a pot indoors year-round — it loves a south-facing window and warm temperatures.

Plant zones

10a–11b

British Columbia last frost

early March

British Columbia first frost

early December

Days to harvest

45–60 days

When to plant Holy Basil (Tulsi)s in British Columbia

Start indoors

Feb 1

Transplant

Mar 1

Harvest

Apr 15 – Apr 30

Dates are approximate, based on British Columbia's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Holy basil (tulsi) is one of the most sacred plants in Hinduism and a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. The clove-pepper flavoured leaves are used in Indian cooking, teas, and as a medicinal herb. Grows happily in a pot on a sunny windowsill in any climate.

Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Grow in a sunny window year-round in cold climates. Harvest before flowering to maintain flavour. Pinch flower buds regularly. Three varieties worth growing: Rama (mild), Krishna (purple, spicier), Vana (wild-type, very aromatic).

Full holy basil (tulsi) growing guide →

Gardening in British Columbia

BC has dramatically different climates. The mild rainy coast (Zone 7-9) allows near-year-round growing. The interior is semi-arid (Zone 5-7) with hot summers and cold winters. One of Canada's most productive growing regions.