How to Harvest Basil without Killing the Plant

For anyone who enjoys cooking, basil is a go-to herb. Its distinct flavor can enhance any dish, from pizza to chicken to the salad. But for those who don’t have a green thumb, growing basil—and harvesting it without killing the plant—can be a challenge.

Luckily, I’m here to help. Read on for my tips on how to harvest your basil without killing the plant.

The Importance of a Clean Cut When Harvesting Basil

When it comes to herbs, basil is one of the most popular. Not only is it versatile and easy to grow, but it also has a delicious flavor that can enhance any dish. If you’re lucky enough to have a basil plant in your backyard (or on your windowsill), then you know how quickly it can grow.

Before you know it, you’ll need to start harvesting the leaves to keep the plant from getting overgrown. And when you do start harvesting, it’s important to use sharp shears or scissors. This will ensure that you make a clean cut and don’t damage the plant.

Why a Clean Cut Matters

You might be wondering why it’s so important to make a clean cut when harvesting basil (or any other herb for that matter). After all, doesn’t pull off the leaves work just as well?

Unfortunately, no.

Pulling off the leaves can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. A clean cut will ensure that the plant can continue to grow without issue.

Cutting basil in with a sharp pair of scissors.

Another reason why a clean cut is important is that it will help the plant produce more leaves. When you pull off the leaves, you’re actually tearing off some of the stems along with it.

This can stunt the plant’s growth and prevent it from producing as many leaves as it otherwise would. So, if you want a healthy basil plant that continues to produce an abundance of leaves, be sure to use sharp shears or scissors when harvesting.

How to harvest basil leaves without killing the plant

Now that you know why it’s important to use sharp shears or scissors when harvesting basil, let’s go over the proper way to do it.

First, take a look at your plant and determine which leaves are ready to be harvested. You’ll want to look for leaves that are big enough to use but haven’t yet started to turn yellow or brown. Once you’ve found the perfect leaves, simply snip them off at the base with your shears or scissors.

Remember to cut above any leaves that are already starting to yellow or brown—you don’t want those!

Cut the basil regularly to promote growth

Regular harvesting of basil is essential to keep the plant bushy, full, and compact. If you let the plant go too long without harvesting, it will start to grow tall and leggy.

You will notice the space between the leaves on the branches increasing, and the plant gets too tall to support itself. Not only does this affect the appearance of the plant, but it also decreases the flavor of the leaves.

Here are a few tips for harvesting basil to ensure that your plant stays healthy and continues to produce delicious leaves.

The ideal time to harvest basil is in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the heat of the day sets in. This is when the oils in the leaves are at their peak, so you’ll want to make sure you cut them then for maximum flavor.

Use sharp pruning shears or a knife to make clean cuts just above a pair of leaves. Try to avoid bruising or tearing the leaves as you cut them. Basil bruises easily, so handle the leaves gently. Make sure you leave at least two sets of leaves on each stem so that the plant can continue to photosynthesize and produce energy for growth.

You can use fresh basil immediately or store it in a vase of water on your countertop. If you have more basil than you can use right away, you can dry it or freeze it for later use.

To dry basil, tie a bundle of stems together and hang it upside down in a dark, cool place until the leaves are crisp.

To freeze basil, wash and dry the leaves, then place them in a freezer-safe bag with all of the air pressed out. Label and date the bag before storing it in your freezer for up to six months.

Frequently Asked Questions about Harvesting Basil

When is basil ready to pick?

Once your basil plants have germinated and are around 8 weeks old, you can start picking the leaves. Each plant will have approximately eight pairs of medial-sized leaves.

Will basil regrow after cutting it?

Yes, basil will regrow after being cut. In fact, regular cutting of the plant will actually help encourage growth. When you cut basil, be sure to do so just above a leaf node (the point where a leaf meets the stem). This will ensure that the plant has the energy it needs to continue growing.

How do you harvest basil so it grows back?

Harvesting basil is easy! Just cut off the stems about an inch or two above where leaves branch out. This will encourage new growth. Keep cutting regularly to keep your plant from going to seed and to promote more bushy growth. When harvesting, take care not to damage the leaves or stems.

Can I let my basil flower?

Yes, you can let your basil flower. But it’s not recommended if you want tasty and flavourful leaves. You should remove the flower before it opens fully. Otherwise, the plant will put its energy into creating seeds rather than producing leaves.