Home › Holy Basil (Tulsi) › Grow in Idaho

Can You Grow Holy Basil (Tulsi) in Idaho?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Won't grow here

Tulsi is frost-tender but thrives as a container herb on any sunny windowsill year-round.

Plant zones

10a–11b

Idaho last frost

mid-March

Idaho first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

45–60 days

When to plant Holy Basil (Tulsi)s in Idaho

Start indoors

Feb 14

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

Apr 29 – May 14

Dates are approximate, based on Idaho'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 Idaho

Idaho has a semi-arid continental climate. Southern valleys are Zone 6-7 with hot dry summers; northern regions and mountains are colder. Excellent for root vegetables and cool crops.