Question 1

When should I plant basil in ZIP 27601?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 27601, the main basil target is around Apr 20, based on the representative Raleigh frost station and USDA zone 8a.

Question 2

When should I start basil seeds indoors in 27601?

Accepted Answer

Start basil seeds indoors in ZIP 27601 around Mar 6, about 35 days before the Apr 10 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Raleigh?

Accepted Answer

Raleigh (ZIP 27601) has an average last spring frost around Apr 10, based on the representative Raleigh frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Raleigh?

Accepted Answer

Raleigh (ZIP 27601) has an average first fall frost around Nov 1, leaving about 205 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	March 6, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	April 20, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	April 20, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start basil seeds indoors around Mar 6

Basil dates for Raleigh, NC