Does very well when direct seeded IME.

Dave

I direct seed. Works pretty well, I plant it like lettuce and then thin.

I've done both, but usually just direct seed. The direct seeded seem to surpass the others (growing stronger and faster.)

The only issue, for me, is that I have bugs (earwigs) or slugs that like to eat the baby basil when it just sprouts. My solution is tossing out A LOT of seed in various beds over a week or two. Some plants get consumed but some make it.

I think it depends on your climate. In my cool summers it is well into July before it is warm enough for basil to germinate outdoors. Plus I have plagues of slugs and snails. In fact I grow it in the greenhouse all summer long as the necessary heat and light are too unpredictable outdoors.