Oklahoma · zones 6b–7b
When to plant basil in Oklahoma.
Sow or transplant between Apr 20 to Jul 6 in a typical year, keyed to Oklahoma's median last frost around Mar 30. Dates below are state medians; your ZIP code shifts them by days to weeks.
The 2026 windows
Basil dates for a typical Oklahoma season.
1 · Start indoors
Mar 9 to May 25
About 6 weeks before set-out. Warm spot, real light.
2 · Set out
Apr 20 to Jul 6
Keyed to the ~Mar 30 last frost. Sow 0.25" deep, 8" apart.
Harvest
~40 days later
~0.5 lb per plant over ~12 weeks.
Oklahoma spans more than one climate: Zone 7 is the most common zone, but the state runs 6b to 7b. That's why the planner works from your ZIP code's frost dates, not your zone: mountain and coastal gardens in the same state can be three weeks apart.
In Oklahoma: watch for
The pests that find basil here.
A middle-length season, about 219 frost-free days, means basil overlaps aphids for a stretch each summer. Check plants every week or two and treat early.
Fine webbing and pale stippling in hot, dry spells.
Organic fix: Spray the undersides with water, then insecticidal soap or neem.
Yellowing with gray fuzz underneath, or white powder on top.
Organic fix: Space for airflow, water at the base, spray neem.
Metallic beetles chewing basil and mint leaves to lace.
Organic fix: Handpick into soapy water in the morning; neem.
Your season math: Oklahoma gives basil about 219 frost-free days, and it needs roughly 40 days to a first harvest. It's a one-planting crop, so time that single sowing well.
Planting basil in Oklahoma: questions
When should I plant basil in Oklahoma?+
In a typical Oklahoma year, sow basil or set out transplants between Apr 20 to Jul 6, keyed to the state's median last frost around Mar 30. Your exact dates shift with your ZIP code and microclimate.
When do I start basil seeds indoors in Oklahoma?+
Start seeds inside about 6 weeks before set-out: roughly Mar 9 to May 25 for a typical Oklahoma season.
What USDA zone is Oklahoma?+
Oklahoma spans zones 6b–7b, mostly zone 7. But frost dates, not zones, set planting time. The free planner uses your ZIP code's actual frost dates.
How many basil plants do I need?+
Depends who you're feeding. The crop page has exact counts per household size, or the free planner does the math for your family in about 60 seconds.