Question 1

When should I plant basil in ZIP 78701?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 78701, the main basil target is around Mar 15, based on the representative Austin frost station and USDA zone 8b.

Question 2

When should I start basil seeds indoors in 78701?

Accepted Answer

Start basil seeds indoors in ZIP 78701 around Jan 29, about 35 days before the Mar 5 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Austin?

Accepted Answer

Austin (ZIP 78701) has an average last spring frost around Mar 5, based on the representative Austin frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Austin?

Accepted Answer

Austin (ZIP 78701) has an average first fall frost around Nov 20, leaving about 260 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	January 29, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	March 15, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	March 15, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start basil seeds indoors around Jan 29

Basil dates for Austin, TX