As an ornamental in the flower garden, basil has attractive foliage and flowers. Basil is a tender perennial grown as an annual. It can be grown easily from seed. Start seed indoors 4 or 5 weeks before the last frost date. Seed can also be sown directly in the ground outdoors after it has warmed in the spring.
Plant basil outdoors after all danger of frost is past.
Basil does not tolerate cold temperatures. Plant in full sun and avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization. Too much nitrogen affects oil content and flavor. Water regularly with an inch of water a week. Basil can also be propagated vegetatively through tip cuttings.