How deep to plant basil

Plant basil seeds only 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep in a friable, well-tilled, uniform seedbed.

The depth: Seeds should be planted only 1/8 - 1/4 inch deep; one source says to sow 1/8 inch deep and cover lightly with soil.

The seed is relatively small, so a good friable, well-tilled and uniform seedbed is required for optimum plant establishment.
Basil seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are 75-85°F and take about 10-14 days to sprout.
Basil prefers fertile, well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter.
Water regularly so that the soil doesn't dry out.

Planting depth varies with soil type and variety; your local extension office is the closest authority.

Grounded in: extension.purdue.edu, extension.usu.edu. Every window and number follows sentences verified verbatim on those pages.

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