Basil is a heat lover. Don't bother planting it until the daytime temperatures remain in the 70s F. and night temperatures are above 50 degrees F. Seeds can be started indoors 3-4 weeks before last spring frost date. Unlike many Mediterranean herbs, basil likes a somewhat rich soil and doesn't like to be kept dry. Space plants about 10" apart. They will bush out. Begin pinching the tops off once the plants reach about 6" in height. If you don't pinch or harvest, the plants will grow tall and gangly, with few leaves and will bolt to seed. You can continue harvesting as long as there are leaves left on the plant to keep it going.

Basil is very sensitive to frost and will be one of the first plants to go in the fall. You can extend the season slightly by covering your plants with row covers when frost is threatened. However, if the leaves are touched by a frost covered row cover, that's enough to likely turn them black.

You can grow basil indoor, from seed, seedling or cuttings from your vegetable garden plants. Provide direct sunlight and warmth and feed monthly. An underfed basil plant, indoors or out, will have pale green leaves.

Harvesting: As noted, frequent harvesting or pinching of the leaves will keep your basil plants producing longer. You can pinch off individual leaves or take the tops off of large plants, if you need a large amount.

Basil can be dried or frozen, for use after harvest.

Information courtesy of Marie Iannotti, About.com Guide