Growing Basil Seeds at Home in Pakistan: A Beginner's Guide

Fast Facts

About Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a warm-season herb grown for its aromatic leaves used in cooking, teas, and herbal remedies. It grows well in pots, raised beds, or kitchen window boxes, and thrives in sunny, warm environments.

When to Plant Basil in Pakistan

Quick Botanical Profile

• Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum

• Family: Lamiaceae

• Pollination Type: Mostly self-pollinated

• Flowering Habit: Annual

Growth Timeline

When to Plant Basil Seeds

• Sow outdoors after frost risk is over and temperatures remain above 20°C.

• Indoors, start seeds 4–6 weeks earlier for an early harvest.

Where to Plant Basil

• Choose a sunny location that receives 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

• Ideal for windowsills, balconies, and patio gardens.

• ✅ Use Organic Potting Mix for better root health.

How to Plant Basil Seeds

• Do not bury deeply — sow seeds on the surface or just press them slightly into the soil.

• Keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart.

• ✅ Start in 4" Pots for easy transfer.

Transplanting Basil

• Transplant when plants are 4–6 inches tall and have several true leaves.

• ✅ Move to Grow Bags or garden bed.

• Handle gently to avoid root damage.

How to Harvest Basil

• Harvest when plants are about 6–8 inches tall.

• Pinch off the top 2–3 inches regularly to encourage bushier growth.

• Avoid letting the plant flower too early — flowering reduces leaf flavor.

How to Care for Basil

• Water every 1–2 days in hot weather; do not let the soil dry completely.

• Fertilize every 2–3 weeks using Organic Vermicompost or ApnaUgao NPK 19-19-19.

• Remove flowers to prolong the life of the plant and encourage more leaf growth.

Companion Planting for Basil

✅ Good Companions:

• Tomatoes

• Peppers

• Lettuce

• Marigolds

❌ Avoid Planting Near:

• Sage

• Rue

• Fennel

Scientific Variations – Basil

• Sweet Basil – Classic variety, most used in kitchens

• Lemon Basil – Citrus-scented, great for teas and Thai cuisine

• Thai Holy Basil – Spicy and aromatic

• Cinnamon Basil – Subtle cinnamon flavor

• Dark Opal Basil – Decorative purple-leafed variety

• Basil Labiates – Traditional aromatic herb group

(All available at ApnaUgao as single packs and basil seed sets.)

Benefits of Basil

• Rich in antioxidants and essential oils

• Boosts digestion and immunity

• Used in teas, pastes, salads, and garnish

• Easy to grow even in limited spaces

Shop ApnaUgao Online for Growing "Basil Plants"

Buy Basil Seeds Collection

• Grow Bags Collection

• Organic Potting Mix

• Vermicompost