Discover how pinching back basil produces a basil bush!
To obtain a lush basil plant full of large leaves, you do not need to have a green thumb, just follow the advice of this expert farmer!
To get the best results, we have to remember that every plant needs different things, and in the case of basil plants, they need to receive plenty of sunlight, in a warm and humid environment.
Moreover, do not put a basil plant in a small planter, its roots need space to grow, so plant a basil seedling in a large clay pot or even in the garden.
If you started your cultivation of basil from seeds, keep them inside initially, at a temperature of 21°C, even heating them with lamps or towels. Basil should not be taken outside until cold weather has not entirely ended.
To properly hydrate a basil plant, watering is not enough, the soil should also be worked so that air can circulate sufficiently, and the soil should not be compact. To improve the soil type you can add compost or leaf mold. In fact, a nitrogen fertilizer or vermicompost may be just the right solution for you.
Here is the secret to transforming your basil plant into a thick and vibrant bush.
For good growth, you have to know when is the right moment to prune the plant. Snap off the tip that juts out between two branches (as shown in the video) and do the same with the side branches as well. Remember to always remove the central part but, please, do not do it if the plant has not reached at least 30 cm in height. This will allow your plant to grow more luxuriantly.
To keep the plant young remove the flowers as soon as they sprout, basil plants become weak after flowering and lose some of their delicious aroma. If a plant suddenly starts flowering, then it should be removed from the sun, kept in a semi-shaded area in very wet soil, in a warm humid environment --- and this should restore its natural cycle.
To conclude, there are different types of basil plants but remember that Genoese basil is used for pesto, Neapolitan basil for pizza, and lemon basil for gravies and sauces. So, what kind of basil plant do you have?
Do not miss the video where the technique to properly trim basil plants is explained and demonstrated so that you too can produce a large and fragrant basil bush!
