Harvest Time
45 days
Difficulty
easy
Growing Methods
Container
Raised Bed
USDA Hardiness Zones
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
About Bonsai Basil (Greek Basil)
Greek Basil, also known as Bonsai Basil or Dwarf Basil, is a compact variety reaching 8-10 inches tall with a 6-8 inch spread. It features small, bright green leaves and naturally forms a dense, globe-shaped bush ideal for containers and small spaces. This variety contains an intense sweet basil fragrance with notes of anise, clove, and mint in a compact form. Greek Basil's sweet and aromatic flavor with subtle hints of pepper, anise, and mint makes it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Generally milder and less bitter than regular sweet basil, it pairs beautifully with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, cheese, and other Mediterranean ingredients.
General Care Instructions
Sunlight Requirements
- • Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and flavor
- • Tolerates partial shade (4-6 hours of direct sun)
- • Morning sun with afternoon shade works well in hot climates
- • Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and reduced essential oils
Temperature Range
- • Ideal growing temperature range: 70-90°F (21-32°C)
- • Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C)
- • Will suffer damage or die when exposed to frost
- • Growth slows below 60°F (15°C) and above 95°F (35°C)
- • Optimal soil temperature for germination: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
Fertilizer Requirements
- • Container plants: Half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks
- • Garden plants: Balanced organic fertilizer monthly
- • Begin fertilizing when plants are 4-6 inches tall
- • Reduce feeding in late season to prevent excessive leaf growth
- • Signs of deficiency: yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale foliage
- • Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which reduce essential oil content
Watering Needs
Newly planted
- • Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
- • Water when top half-inch of soil feels dry
- • Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease
Establishing plants
- • Container plants: Check daily; water when top inch of soil is dry
- • Garden/raised beds: Deep watering 1-2 times weekly
- • More frequent watering during hot, dry periods
Established plants
- • Continue consistent moisture for best flavor
- • Reduce watering slightly during cooler weather
- • Never allow soil to completely dry out