When to Plant Basil in Nevada
The king of herbs. Basil and tomatoes are best friends in the garden and in the kitchen.
The Short Answer
Nevada Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Nevada you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Nevada (Reno) | 6b, 7a | May 1 - May 20 | Sep 25 - Oct 15 |
| Las Vegas | 8b, 9a, 9b | Feb 10 - Mar 5 | Nov 10 - Dec 1 |
| Mountain Nevada | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | May 25 - Jun 15 | Aug 25 - Sep 15 |
Basil Planting Schedule for Nevada
Northern Nevada (Reno) (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: May 1 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15
Las Vegas (Zones 8b, 9a, 9b)
Average last frost: Feb 10 - Mar 5 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Dec 1
Mountain Nevada (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Growing Basil in Nevada
Basil in Nevada's Climate
Basil grows nearly year-round in subtropical zones. The challenge isn't cold but humidity — downy mildew thrives in warm, wet conditions. Choose resistant varieties and provide good air circulation. In south Florida and Hawaii, basil is perennial — plants survive winter and continue producing for years.
Soil Considerations for Nevada
Desert soils — alkaline, low organic matter. Extremely dry. Heavy amendment essential. Irrigation required. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting basil outside.
Nevada Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Extreme heat in summer (Las Vegas). Short season at altitude. Very low humidity. Water conservation critical. Basil cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Nevada: Northern Nevada (Reno) (6b, 7a) has a last frost around May 1 - May 20, while Mountain Nevada (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) sees frost end around May 25 - Jun 15. This difference matters for basil — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
Growing Tips
Pinch off flower buds to keep leaves producing. Harvest from the top down, cutting just above a leaf pair. Succession plant for season-long supply.
Companion Planting
Plant basil alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep basil away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026