Learn when and how to harvest basil
Author: Mars Grow
Release time: 2024-04-11 11:16:52
View number: 139
Growing basil in a sun-filled environment is a breeze, whether it's on land outdoors or in a container indoors. As long as you know how to harvest basil, you can conveniently pick some leaves every time you need to add flavor to your dishes.
Growing your own basil is much more economical than buying fresh basil at the grocery store. You can also try growing some interesting varieties, such as Thai basil and lemon basil, which can all give you a unique and invigorating taste. No matter which kind of basil you choose to grow in your garden, remember that the key to getting the most out of this herb is knowing how to harvest the basil leaves without harming or killing the plant. Here are some of the best ways to harvest and preserve fresh basil.
When to Harvest Basil
Whether you are planting basil from seed, or purchasing a seedling that has already grown, deciding when to harvest basil mainly depends on the size of your plant. When a plant has at least four pairs of leaves, it is possible to know that the time for harvest has come. Before you are ready to harvest basil leaves, your basil plant should have grown to 6 to 8 inches tall. If you are clear about the planting time of your plant, then you can expect that within 60 to 70 days of sowing, basil will be ready to be harvested.
In addition, the best time of day to harvest basil is in the morning, after the dew has evaporated from the plants. When summer passes and the cold weather returns, you should harvest the basil before the frost. However, you can also move the basil plants to a sunny window in your home or place them under a growth lamp to keep them growing during the winter.
How to Harvest Basil LeavesBasil is a fast-growing vanilla that produces rich flavored leaves. When you only need a few leaves, the best way to harvest is to pick them piece by piece at the part where the leaves connect to the stems. You should start harvesting basil leaves from the top of the plant, where new leaves will grow quickly. If you harvest the bottom leaves first, it may leave the plant looking slender and sparse. To get the most flavored leaves, you should harvest before the flowers appear.
How to Harvest Basil StemsWhen you want to harvest multiple basil leaves at once, you can use a pair of small scissors to prune the basil plant from top to bottom, removing the entire stem. You should aim to cut about 1/4 inch above the node, where the leaves and side branches of the basil plant appear. Do not cut off more than a third of the total height of the plant each time, so you can harvest more newly grown basil leaves over the next two to three weeks.
In order for your basil plant to continue to grow new leaves throughout the summer, you should cut off the buds before they bloom. In addition, basil cuttings can easily take root in water, resulting in new basil plants.
How to Store Fresh BasilIf you want to store fresh basil leaves for a few days, the best way is to treat them like fresh cut flowers: Leave the sprigs of basil in room temperature water and they will keep for up to five days. It is important to note that basil should not be kept in the refrigerator, because at low temperatures, basil leaves will turn brown quickly. You can also choose to dry the basil leaves so that they can be enjoyed all year round. Frozen basil is also a good choice if you wish to add basil to soups, stews, breakfast frying pans and other foods at any time.
How to Use Fresh Basil LeavesGrowing basil outdoors is key to enjoying the rich flavor of this vanilla, whether fresh or cooked. When you've harvested the basil, sprinkle a few basil leaves on your pizza or use it to garnish your favorite pasta. Plus, add a basil leaf or two to your lemonade for a refreshing and refreshing drink.