Growing basil in Alaska presents unique challenges due to the state’s short growing season, cooler temperatures, and limited sunlight during summer months. However, with the right basil varieties and proper care, gardeners can successfully cultivate this fragrant herb even in such a demanding climate. This article explores the best types of basil suited for Alaska’s short summers, tips for growing them effectively, and how to maximize your harvest.
Alaska’s growing season typically ranges from late May or early June through mid-September, giving gardeners roughly 90 to 100 days to grow crops. Basil is a warm-weather herb that generally thrives in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C-29°C) and requires plenty of sunlight — ideally six or more hours a day. These conditions are often difficult to replicate outdoors in Alaska without careful planning.
Additional challenges include:
Because of these factors, selecting basil varieties that mature quickly, tolerate cooler temperatures, and have a robust flavor profile is essential for successful cultivation.
When choosing basil for Alaska’s short summers, focus on varieties that have:
Genovese basil is the classic Italian sweet basil variety frequently used in pesto and Mediterranean dishes. It’s widely favored because of its rich aroma and large leaves.
Despite its preference for warmth, with protection and careful timing, Genovese can flourish in Alaskan summers, especially when started indoors early.
Spicy Globe is an excellent choice for Alaskans seeking a slower-growing but compact variety well-suited for containers and small spaces.
Its compact size and quick growth make it well-adapted to indoor/outdoor transitions necessary in Alaskan gardening.
Lemon basil offers a citrus twist on traditional basil flavor. It grows well with ample light and moderate warmth but is surprisingly adaptable.
Starting lemon basil indoors early is recommended for maximizing growth before transplanting outside during Alaska’s brief sunny period.
Though not as commonly grown as sweet basils, African Blue Basil is known for its outstanding cold hardiness compared to other types.
African Blue Basil benefits from starting indoors or greenhouse cultivation but can thrive outdoors if planted after frost risk passes.
Bush Basil is a dwarf variety that produces dense foliage quickly.
This variety suits gardeners who want early harvests with minimal space requirements.
Because of the short outdoor growing season, begin basil seeds indoors up to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use seed-starting trays under grow lights or near south-facing windows. Maintain soil temperatures around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination.
Before transplanting outside, gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over one to two weeks. This process helps prevent shock from cooler temperatures and wind.
Raised beds warm up faster than ground soil, providing better conditions for basil roots. Containers allow you to move plants indoors during cold spells or extend the growing season under grow lights.
Choose the sunniest spots available—south-facing windowsills indoors or garden areas exposed to maximum sunlight. If natural light is limited due to long daylight hours being mostly twilight, consider supplemental LED grow lights.
Use row covers, cloches, or even clear plastic bottles cut in half as mini-greenhouses over young plants during chilly nights. This insulation helps maintain warmer microclimates around tender plants.
Basil prefers moist yet well-draining soil. Container-grown plants especially require regular watering but ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot or fungal diseases common in damp environments.
Pinching off flower buds encourages bushier growth and prolongs leaf production throughout the short season. Harvest frequently by snipping leaves just above leaf nodes.
To ensure you get the best out of your Alaskan basil crop:
While Alaska’s short summers present challenges for growing tender herbs like basil, several varieties are well-suited to thrive under these conditions. Genovese offers traditional flavor if given protection and an early start; Spicy Globe provides compact rapid growth perfect for containers; Lemon Basil adds bright citrus notes; African Blue brings cold tolerance with unique aroma; Bush Basil delivers quick harvests from small spaces.
By selecting appropriate varieties combined with indoor seed starting, careful hardening off, strategic planting locations, and protective measures against cold nights, gardeners in Alaska can enjoy fresh, flavorful basil throughout summer—and beyond when preserved properly. With patience and thoughtful cultivation techniques tailored to local climate constraints, even Alaska’s brief summers can yield bountiful herb gardens bursting with aromatic basil leaves ready for every culinary delight.