Planting at the Wrong Time of Year
Basil is a warm-weather lover—frost will kill it—while thyme can handle a light frost once established. Sow basil before the last spring frost and it won’t budge, but delay it too long and cooler nights slow its growth. I started basil in mid-March under a cold frame and it barely grew until May’s warmth finally arrived!
Wait until nights reliably stay above 50°F to plant basil outdoors. Thyme, on the other hand, can go in earlier—give it a head start in spring so it’s ready to mingle with basil when warmth returns. Timing is everything for a joyful garden duet!