Are you growing basil in Ohio, but don’t know when the best time to harvest them is?
Harvesting basil is not as easy as it seems.
Here’s why:
- Basil has a very short window when it can be harvested and still taste great.
So if you harvest them too early they may not be ready and taste bad. And if you harvest them too late they may become infected with mold, fungus, insects, etc., and become inedible.
Today, I’m going to teach you the ideal time to harvest basil in Ohio:
- To Learn More About HOW to Grow Basil, Check Out This GUIDE!
When Do I Harvest Basil in Ohio?
As you may have already guessed, there are two main factors that determine when you should harvest your basil: the physical features of the basil & weather (time).
Harvest Basil if They Look Like This!!!
The physical features of basil are what most gardeners commonly rely on to determine if they are ready to be picked off the plant or not.
In general, you should harvest basil if they have the following physical features:
- The leaves of basil are wide, long, and dark green (or purple) in color and are at least 3 inches long.
Harvest Your Basil During THIS Time of Year!!!
In general, you should harvest rhubarb:
- 28 to 35 days after starting basil from seed
- Immediately after planting basil in your garden
And no matter what, you should ALWAYS harvest your basil before the first frost of the year. Frost will immediately kill your basil plant and make your basil inedible.
For your reference, I have created this table for average frost dates for most major cities in Ohio. If your city is not listed below you can find its Last & First Frost Dates HERE.
Ohio Last & First Frost Dates
It should be noted that you should not overly rely on the first frost of the year. The average first frost of the year is only correct 30% of the time.
Instead, pay close attention to your local weather.
When you know a frost is coming you need to take action.
- If basil are in pots, bring them inside
- If basil is in the ground, cover them in burlap and hope they survive
- Pick all basil.
If you want to learn WHEN to harvest ANY Vegetable in Ohio, head over to HERE and just type in the vegetable you want to grow.
