Looking for an herb that grows and gives abundantly? Let’s go with basil—here’s How you Top Basil Plants for a Bumper Harvest!
Can’t get enough of basil? You’re not alone. This flavorful herb uplifts almost any dish, and it’s only natural to want it to multiply and grow abundantly. Learn how to top basil correctly to boost your harvest, and enjoy a bumper crop from every single plant!
How to Top Basil Plants for Bumper Harvest
1. Pick Basil the Right Way
You may be doing it, but are you doing it right? Topping basil is simple—pick the leaves from the topmost growing point (apical bud). This will force your plant to redirect its energy to sprout new side shoots, branches, and leaves, resulting in a bumper harvest!
And with more side shoots and branches, your basil will grow bushy and full instead of tall and leggy—here are more tips for that!
2. Where to Make the Cut
Since you are topping the plant for fuller growth, cut just above a pair of healthy leaves or a leaf node; fresh shoots and branches will begin growing here. Do not cut too low on the stem, especially near the base—this will stunt your plant’s growth and curb its recovery!
Note: Avoid cutting above an underdeveloped or bare plant section; it will not encourage new growth. Instead, cut the topmost growth just above a well-developed node.
3. Don’t Make Messy Cuts
For a bumper harvest, you need to top your basil plants with precision; use pruners or herb snippers to make the perfect cut. These tools are compact and lightweight and can be found in any department or online store.
And if you can manage with your hands, go for it. Whatever you do, avoid tugging at a stem or tearing it up—this will surely hurt your plant and not push out any new growth. On the contrary, it will damage your basil and cause disease pathogens to enter the tissues.
4. Time it Right
The best time to top a basil plant is during its active growing season in late spring and summer. Do it any other time, and you can bid adieu to your favorite herb.
During its growing season, your basil plant’s only job is to grow—healthy and abundant! Topping your basil during these months will result in vigorous branching. It also ensures the plant has enough warm weather to recover and grow more leaves.
When your basil plant is about 6-8 inches tall and has at least 4-6 sets of true leaves, pick up those pruners or use your fingers to pinch it for a better yield. These 2-minute tips will help!
Tip: Avoid topping basil in late fall or winter, especially in colder climates. Your plant’s growth slows during these months, and topping during this time can stress the plant.
