Basil Pruning Tips: Master & Never Buy Store-Bought Again

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Unlock the full potential of your basil plant with the power of pruning. While it might seem counterintuitive, pruning is crucial in encouraging your basil plant to flourish.

But remember, plants rely on their leaves for photosynthesis, so be careful not to remove too many, especially when the plant is young and vulnerable.

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The aim is to cultivate a broad, bushy basil plant rather than a tall, lanky one. So, how do you achieve this? It’s all about which leaves you pluck.

The Art of Pruning Basil

The secret lies in removing the tops, going down to the second-highest leaves. You can do this by simply pinching and plucking.

Sweet Basil

Sweet basil, typically found in grocery stores, has leaves with a sweet, almost anise-like flavor, a vibrant bright green color, and a rounded shape. The delightful aroma released when you ruffle this foliage is a bonus.

Genovese Basil

Genovese basil has a slightly spicier flavor and smaller, flat, pointed leaves. Both varieties are culinary versatile. Sweet basil is popular for Caprese salads, while Genovese basil is perfect for a fresh pesto batch.

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