Gardenality.com · Gardenality Genius · Zone 8A · 10° to 15° F · Comment About Planting
Holy basil is very easy to grow. As with other basils it is a tender herb that cannot withstand frost and will only thrive with night temperatures above 54°F (12.2°C). This tender perennial is usually grown as an annual in garden beds outdoors but can be successfully grown indoors throughout the year. It can also be grown outdoors in containers which can be brought indoors when temperatures are forecast to drop below 55°F. I grow the plant in containers and use a professional potting MIX. During the warm season I set the container on my back deck where it receives at least 8 hours of direct sun a day and the plants do fine.

Gardenality.com · Gardenality Genius · Zone 8A · 10° to 15° F · Comment About Feeding
Because I ingest Holy Basil for stress relief and other benefits, I fertilize the plants lightly with a mild, organic plant food in spring and again in early summer.

Gardenality.com · Gardenality Genius · Zone 8A · 10° to 15° F · Comment About Pruning
I don't allow Holy Basil to go to flower. As soon as I see flower buds forming I cut them off. Throughout the season I harvest the leaves for use in a tea I make with them. The tea is very soothing and has helped me in reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety.