Want to learn how to harvest basil like a pro? Do you know when it’s time to harvest? Do you know where to cut when gathering your yield? Read on and consider this your how-to basil growing guide!
Harvesting basil leaves is a very intricate job as the growth of the basil plant and how bushy it is, depends on whether you are properly providing the appropriate conditions. For you to always have fresh basil ready in your kitchen learn how to harvest basil like a pro!
How To Harvest Basil Like A Pro | Homesteading Guide
One of the essential parts in growing a brilliant batch of basil is the technique you use when harvesting the basil plants. This is what’s going to help you grow your basil plant to is maximum height and produce the bushiest plant possible.
Proper harvesting is considered the key to growing a perfect basil plant. Prepare to learn how to get your best yield yet!
Transplanting The Basil Plant
Tending to your basil plant with proper pruning practices is a big must. Before transplanting the basil plant you should try nipping off the end of the growth of each branch. The plant should not have less than 3 sets of leaves at this point and it must be at least 1-foot tall, to make sure that plant will not die.
The general suggestion, however, is that you hold up the plant until they have 4 to 6 sets of leaves so that the plant will prosper for a longer period of time. For the primary pruning, you should cut right above the second set of leaves. This should be done at every 3 weeks or so, to be able to see a significant growth. If you’re able to do this consistently then you be able to produce 15 – 24 cups of basil per plant per season.
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Best Time to Pick Basil Leaves
Generally, it is perfect to pick basil leaves in the morning after the first dew. The leaves are fresh and moist and the essential oils will be captured inside, providing a more powerful flavor to the basil.
The prior night you harvest your basil, water down the plant thoroughly to make sure that dust and other particles have been removed.
Pinch Right Above the Little Leaves
When it’s time for you to harvest your basil, pinch off a bit of the stem instead of simply cutting off a leaf or two. Prior to doing your pinch, take a closer look at you basil plant. Basil leaves grow in sets of two and the leaves are precisely situated exactly opposite from each other on the stem.
If you examine closely the point where the leaves meet the stem, you will see two sets of small leaves growing out of the junction. When you’re harvesting, it’s essential to make your pinch specifically over a set of two leaves. Why? By removing the lead stem, you send a sign to the small leaves that it is now time for them to grow into branches.
Keep Fresh Basil Leaves In Water
After harvesting your basil, don’t put the leaves directly in the fridge. The leaves will turn black quickly and will become slimy when refrigerated and lose their spicy sweet flavor. To keep it fresh, I normally put it into a short, heavy vase of water and keep it out of direct sunlight. You’ll see the that the basil will drop at first, yet after 12 hours it livens up. I use leaves as I need, so I make sure that I change the water every other day.
The basil will stay fresh in the container for a week or more. In fact, leaving the stems in the water it will eventually grow a root and then you can replant it in a pot or in your garden.
Need an amazing recipe to try with your fresh basil leaves? Check this out : Scrumptious Pesto Recipe with Fresh Basil
Want to learn more about how to harvest basil like a pro? Let’s watch this video from : DryFlyRy GetUpAndGrow
Thanks for checking our How To Harvest Basil Like A Pro post! Ready to take on your own basil plant? Let us know in the comments below.
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