A GARDENER has shared a harvesting tip that encourages growth without damaging basil plants.
He explained that the hack will encourage basil growth all summer long.
The Gardner (@back_yard_bountiful) shared the gardening tip in a viral post.
When it comes to basil plants, he explained that it was quite common for novice gardeners to “mess up” the harvesting process.
He started by checking his basil plants for flowers, which indicates whether they are ready for pruning.
If the plant doesn’t have flowers yet, he advises leaving the plant alone to grow more.
Those that have flowers are ready for pruning, and a hack helps you prune the plant at its peak for regrow.
From the bottom of the plant stem, he counts three nodes, takes scissors and cuts the plant above the third node.
“Use that basil in your dish,” he said.
“See these shoots on each side of the node I just cut? They’re going to grow into new stems.”
He displayed a basil plant that he had pruned earlier, which had grown new stems and even sprouted flowers.
With scissors, he repeated the knot trick, cutting the basil above the third knot.
“Keep doing this and you will harvest all summer long,” he said.
The gardener recommended using fresh basil in salads and accompanying Italian dishes.
Beginning gardeners were grateful for the advice.
“Thank you so much! I’ve been doing this wrong forever!” said one commenter.
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- Banana peels, vinegar and coffee grounds are often recommended as natural fertilizers.
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“I always wondered why mine wouldn’t last. Very helpful, thank you!” said another.
Others shared additional tips and tricks to prevent plant damage.
“I was told never to cut basil with metal,” said one viewer.
“Squeeze the rod with your finger and [your] miniatures.”
“You are sure!” highlighted a more experienced viewer.
One commenter suggested pinching off the flowers if you don’t need the basil right away.
Although some thought the technique was not necessary, the gardener explained that it was essential for him.
“This is unnecessary. Just pick the flower, no need to count or be specific,” said one viewer.
“I disagree. We want a bushier plant rather than a tall one; we do that,” the gardener replied.
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