Basil
About Basil
Fresh basil is one of the most aromatic and versatile herbs at the summer farmers market. It arrives alongside tomatoes in July and peaks in August — the two are natural partners. Local basil is far more fragrant than grocery store basil, which has often been refrigerated (cold damages basil). Sweet basil is the most common variety, but you may also find Thai basil, lemon basil, and purple basil at local markets.
Nutrition Highlights
- Contains antioxidants including flavonoids
- Good source of vitamin K
- Contains anti-inflammatory compounds
- Rich in essential oils that give it its aroma
Tips for Buying & Storing
- Keep basil at room temperature — never refrigerate it, cold turns it black
- Store in a glass of water on the counter, like flowers
- Make pesto and freeze in ice cube trays — a cube in January is a small miracle
- Add to dishes at the very end of cooking to preserve flavor and color
- Pair with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, zucchini, pasta, and pizza
Where to Find Basil Near Ann Arbor
When in season, basil can be found at all four local markets — Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Saline, Ypsilanti, and Dexter. Arrive early on Saturdays for the best selection.
View all markets →Local Farms That Carry Basil
Community Farm of Ann Arbor
Chelsea
Michigan's first CSA (established 1988), practicing biodynamic agriculture on preserved farmland. Grows heirloom vegetables, fruit trees, and raises cows, goats, sheep, and bees. Sliding-scale membership with free workshops and on-farm participation days.
Green Things Farm Collective
Ann Arbor
Majority women-owned certified organic farm collective on 100+ acres in Ann Arbor. Buffet-style CSA memberships, Salad Club punch cards, U-Pick Flower CSA, and daily farm stand March-December. Sliding scale pricing. Vendors at Ann Arbor Farmers Market and Argus Farm Stop.
Jacob's Fresh Farm
Dexter
40-acre family farm in Dexter with a year-round farmstand, multiple CSA seasons (spring through holiday), u-pick strawberries, lavender, sunflowers, and pumpkins, plus raw honey from their own apiary. Also sold at Chelsea Farmers Market and Argus Farm Stop.
Old City Acres
Ypsilanti
Year-round flexible CSA and farm stand serving Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor since 2013. Offers Michigan-grown produce, fruits, vegetables, and eggs with free pickup and home delivery options. Farm stand located in Ypsilanti at B Cubed Bakery parking lot.
Seva Farms
Dexter
Community-supported neighborhood farm in Scio Township practicing regenerative, no-till agriculture on pesticide-free land. Offers summer and fall CSA shares for produce and flowers, led by biodynamic farmer with over two decades of experience.
Tantre Farm
Chelsea
Ecologically-grown farm on 115 acres growing 80-100 varieties of vegetables, fruit, mushrooms, herbs, and flowers since 1993. 18-week summer CSA at $685, split shares available, with pickup in Chelsea and Ann Arbor.
Looking for something else? Browse all local farms or find a farmers market near you.