Leaf Drop in Basil
Sweet basil is one of the most popular culinary herbs, prized for its aromatic leaves used in Italian and Southeast Asian cooking
Basil care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to leaf drop in Basil. Check each one as a potential cause.
Symptoms to look for in Basil
Leaves yellow and drop, sometimes rapidly, especially lower leaves first.
Common causes in Basil
Basil is very frost-sensitive and reacts strongly to cold — even brief exposure to temperatures below 10°C, or a cold draft from an open window, commonly triggers leaf drop even indoors.
How to diagnose leaf drop in Basil
Assess recent environmental changes — has the plant been moved?
How to treat leaf drop in Basil
Move the plant away from cold drafts or windows immediately, and check that temperatures stay within the 18–30°C range this herb needs. Trim off dropped or dying leaves.
Preventing leaf drop in Basil
Keep basil in a warm, draft-free spot away from cold windows or air conditioning, and bring outdoor plants in before any risk of cold nights.