B(caps)asil is one of the warm season herbs that have a distinctive scent and flavor. This fast-growing herb is definitely one of the most popular herbs grown by gardeners. A leafy green herb, belonging to the mint family, with an intense flavor that is a staple in Mediterranean cooking. Basil can be dried and used during months when it may not be available in some regions, but it is best when used fresh, as it will provide peak flavor. This fragrant herb is a great addition to recipes. Particularly homemade pesto.
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The secret for having big bushy basil plant is knowing how to take care and harvesting leaves!
How to Harvest Basil
When to Harvest Basil
Basil is a plant that grows pretty fast, I think that it's better to wait for the plant to develop a little before harvesting.
- You can start harvesting basil leaves when the plant is about six to eight inches tall.
- For young basil plants, just pick a few leaves every few days. As the plant grows, you can pick more leaves.
- You can pick basil whenever you need it, but I found that he best time to harvest is in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak freshness.
- Each time you harvest basil, it encourages the plant to make more leaves.
- To ensure a healthy development of the plant. Each time you harvest some leaves, try not to pick many. That gives the basil plant time to regrow. As it takes about 2–3 weeks for the plant to develop more leaves.
- You should cut the stalk of the plant at the height of the second set of leaves. This will determine the plant to grow two new stalks from the cutting point. Once the new stalks developed several sets of leaves, you should repeat the same operation for each basal stalk.
- To keep your basil plant strong and healthy, you have to remove all the flowers as soon as you notice them. If left to develop, the flowers will transform into seeds and your basil plant will die soon after.
Storing Harvested Basil leaves
- After you have collected your basil leaves, examine them one by one and remove any dead or yellow leaves that you will find.
- Rinse all thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Allow the leaves to air dry, then, put them in a plastic storage container. This way, your basil can last for up to a few weeks.
How to Dry Basil Leaves
- You can put the leaves in a dry paper bag and place the bag in a warm, dry place.
- Let them dry for two weeks.
- Keep the leaves as intact as possible and store them in canning jars.
- I always keep full leaves of my dry basil and crumble them at the last minute, when i want to use them.
- The dried basil leaves should be kept for about a year, or as long as it keeps the same distinct aroma.
- Another way to dry basil is to simply hanging it up in bunches in a warm, dry room.
Watch How to Harvest Basil Leaves Video
For big harvests, your basil can be used to make a delicious pesto and stored in the freezer for up to a year.
Now that you know how to harvest and store basil, try to grow some bushy basil of your own!
I hope you enjoyed my post and learned something new about harvesting basil. So please feel free to ask questions, and spread the love by passing it on!
Happy Gardening
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