Someone harvesting leaves from their basil plant with a pair of scissors. - Elva Etienne/Getty Images Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is one of the most rewarding herbs to grow, especially for beginners.

Basil is a warm-season herb that doesn’t take well to cold temperatures—that first frost can damage or kill it. However, you don’t have to wait until summer to cook with the fresh herb. You can enjoy ...