To help basil produce as many leaves as possible, learning how to prune the plant is key.
Pruning basil increases both stem and leaf growth.
Basil grows easily from seed but it needs warm soil to germinate.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
In northern climates, basil has a relatively short growing season.
Be sure to always pinch or cut just above a set of leaves.
Harvest any leaves on the portion of the stem you have pruned off.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
This herb will grow quickly during warm weather and should be checked daily when temperatures approach 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The essential oils that give the herb fragrance and flavor are at their peak concentration during these times.
Two new stems will grow from the pruned central stem.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
Remember to prune 1/4 inch above a set of leaves.
Place the pruned stems with leaves in your harvest basket to use in your favorite recipe.
Flower buds appear on the stem at the juncture of two leaves or stems.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
The flower buds are easily pinched out using your thumb and index finger.
Be sure to remove the entire bud.
Any part left on the plant will cause that stem to cease producing new leaves.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
Pruning basil with dull, dirty shears and harvesting leaves when they are wet can be harmful to basil.
Waiting too long to prune the plant can also cause basil to suffer.
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
The Spruce / Colleen & Shannon Graham
