Basil is a popular and versatile herb that adds a fresh and aromatic touch to many dishes. Whether you grow it in your garden or keep it in a pot on your windowsill, maintaining a healthy basil plant is essential to enjoy its flavors throughout the summer. A few weeks ago on Instagram, I shared a video about how to keep your basil plant producing all summer long. It was so popular we wanted to share a little more detail about how to cut basil off the plant, how often you have to water basil, and more.
Basil plants have varying lifespans depending on various factors such as growing conditions, care, and climate. Generally, basil is an annual herb, which means it completes its life cycle in one growing season. However, with proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your basil plant and enjoy its harvest for several months.
How to cut basil off the plant?
Trimming basil correctly encourages healthy growth and keeps your basil plant producing all summer long.
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Start harvesting basil when it reaches about 6-8 inches in height and has developed a few sets of true leaves.
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Use a clean pair of gardening shears or scissors to cut the basil stems just above a leaf node (the point where leaves emerge from the stem).
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Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and hinder its growth.
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Regularly pinch off the flower buds that appear on the basil plant. Removing them redirects the plant's energy toward leaf production rather than flowering.
When it comes to harvesting basil leaves, it's best to use a clean pair of gardening shears or scissors. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and hinder its growth. Instead, focus on cutting the basil stems just above a leaf node, which is the point where leaves emerge from the stem. This method encourages healthy growth and ensures a continuous supply of fresh leaves throughout the summer.
To ensure your basil plant thrives and continues producing fresh leaves, it's important to maintain an appropriate watering schedule. Basil plants prefer moist but not overly saturated soil. Water them consistently, usually every 2-3 days, depending on the weather conditions. Before watering, check the soil's moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.
How long does fresh basil last?
Fresh basil leaves typically last for about a week when stored properly. To maximize their freshness, store basil leaves at room temperature, preferably in a glass of water like a bouquet of flowers. Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can also store them in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel, and placed in a perforated plastic bag.
You can watch the video here as well.
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