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Can You Grow Holy Basil (Tulsi) in Washington?

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

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

10a–11b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

45–60 days

When to plant Holy Basil (Tulsi)s in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 16 – Mar 31

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 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.