Thai Sweet Basil arranged in silver bowl on a white background.
A macro close-up view of Thai Sweet Basil on a white background.
A butterfly on a Thai Sweet Basil bloom with leaves in the background..
Thai Sweet Basil with Thai Red curry and some Thai style decoration on a light high key background.
A bouquet of Thai Sweet Basil tied with jute twine with Thai coins on an old wooden background.
Thai Sweet Basil with Thai Red curry and some Thai style decoration on a blue background.
Thai Sweet Basil in a metal Thai bowl and a postcard from Thailand on a white background.
Young Thai Sweet Basil plants growing in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.
Thai Sweet Basil arranged in silver bowl on a white background.
A macro close-up view of Thai Sweet Basil on a white background.
A butterfly on a Thai Sweet Basil bloom with leaves in the background..
Thai Sweet Basil with Thai Red curry and some Thai style decoration on a light high key background.
A bouquet of Thai Sweet Basil tied with jute twine with Thai coins on an old wooden background.
Thai Sweet Basil with Thai Red curry and some Thai style decoration on a blue background.
Thai Sweet Basil in a metal Thai bowl and a postcard from Thailand on a white background.
Young Thai Sweet Basil plants growing in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.

Basil Seeds,
Thai Sweet

4.527 ReviewsSKU: #HB166Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum basilicum). Popular sweet, spicy basil that is essential in Thai cuisine. Very flavorful with a nice licorice taste. Amazing taste of Thailand! This plant is not only a culinary favorite, but also known for its medicinal value. It is also a source of calcium and vitamins. Don't make a pot of curry without it!

Growing Tips: Thai Sweet basil thrives in warm, sunny environments, requiring 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Consistent watering is important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Regularly pinch back the growing tips to encourage a bushier plant and delay flowering, which can reduce the leaf flavor.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
6–10
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Begin seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your region. Transplant seedlings into the garden once nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F. In warmer climates, you can direct sow seeds after the last frost. Thai Sweet basil loves heat, so planting during the warmer months will result in faster growth. If you're unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in garden beds after the last frost. Maintain soil temperatures between 70 to 85°F for germination, which usually takes 6 to 10 days. Space plants 8 to 12 inches apart to ensure proper airflow and healthy growth. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before transplanting to outdoor conditions to reduce transplant shock.

How to Grow

Water consistently to keep the soil moist, and fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks with compost or a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear to prolong the harvest and keep the leaves tender and flavorful. If allowed to flower, the blooms will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. This basil can also be grown in containers if it has well-draining soil and is placed in a sunny spot. Protect it from pests like aphids and spider mites using organic methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

How to Save Seeds

  • Flower heads mature progressively from the bottom of the stem to the top.
  • When the bottom seed head starts to turn brown, the stem can be cut and allowed to dry away from direct sun in a well-ventilated area.
  • Rub dried raceme over a fine wire mesh and winnow off the chaff.
  • Place chaff in a bowl and carefully swirl contents around. Seeds will gather at the bottom of the bowl.
  • Tip the bowl so that the chaff can be discarded and blow the rest out carefully.

FAQ

How does Thai Sweet basil taste?

It has a sweet, slightly spicy flavor with strong anise-licorice notes, making it ideal for Thai and Southeast Asian dishes.

Does Thai Sweet basil attract pollinators?

Yes, the purple flowers of this basil attract bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

Can Thai Sweet basil be grown in containers?

Yes, it's perfect for container gardening. Use a pot with good drainage, nutrient-rich soil, and place it in a location with full sun exposure.

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