Variety: Lemon Basil (Ocimum × citriodorum)
Growth Habit: Annual herb
Height: 12–24 inches
Flavor Profile: Sweet basil with a bright lemony twist
Color: Light green, narrow leaves
Planting Conditions: Full sun and well-drained, fertile soil
Harvest Timeline: Ready in 60–70 days
Uses: Herbal teas, seafood dishes, desserts, salads, microgreens
Fun Fact: Lemon basil is a natural hybrid between American basil and hoary basil, and it's especially popular in Southeast Asian cuisine for its citrusy punch.

Lemon Basil is like sunshine in leaf form. Its bright, lemony scent and flavor make it a favorite for herbal teas, seafood marinades, and even fruit-based desserts. Add it to a summer salad, muddle it into a cocktail, or steep it for a calming tea with a citrusy lift. Whether you’re growing it for flavor or fragrance, this basil brings a refreshing twist to your garden and your plate.

To Full Size
🌞 Choose a Sunny Spot: Basil thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of light daily.
🌱 Sow the Seeds: Start indoors 6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep.
💧 Water Gently: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water at the base to prevent mildew.
🌾 Thin and Maintain: Thin seedlings to 6–12 inches apart. Pinch off flower buds to encourage more leaf growth.
✂️ Harvest: Begin harvesting when plants are 6–8 inches tall. Regular picking promotes bushier growth.

For Microgreens
🌱 Prepare Your Tray: Use a shallow tray with drainage. Fill with seed-starting mix or coco coir.
🌾 Sow the Seeds: Scatter seeds evenly (8–10 grams per 10"x20" tray). Lightly press into the surface.
💧 Mist and Cover: Mist gently and cover with a humidity dome or tray lid.
🌱 Germination (Days 1–4): Keep in a warm, dark place. Mist daily.
🌞 Light and Watering (Days 5–10): Remove cover and place under grow lights or in a sunny window. Begin bottom watering.
✂️ Harvest (Days 10–14): Cut when microgreens are 2–3 inches tall. Use fresh or store in the fridge for up to a week.