Basil Seeds,
Thai Holy Kaprao

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant them into the garden once nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50 F. Alternatively, in warmer climates, you can direct sow the seeds outdoors after the last frost. Check your local area’s frost dates to time your planting accurately. Thai Holy Kaprao basil grows best during the warm summer months and will struggle in cooler conditions. Learn more about your region’s frost dates by checking out our blog post, ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

Surface sow seeds in seed trays or directly into garden soil after frost danger has passed. For indoor starts, use a seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist with temperatures around 70 to 85°F for germination. Space plants 6 to 8 inches apart in the garden to allow airflow and adequate growth. Before transplanting seedlings, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7 to 10 days.

Water Thai Holy Kaprao basil regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or enrich the soil with compost before planting. Regularly pinch back the plant's top leaves to encourage bushier growth and delay flowering. To protect against pests like aphids and spider mites, use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap. Companion planting with tomatoes or peppers can also help deter pests naturally.

• 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.