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Can You Grow Holy Basil (Tulsi) in New Mexico?

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

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

10a–11b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

45–60 days

When to plant Holy Basil (Tulsi)s in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 14 – Apr 29

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.