A reader recently inquired as to the best way to harvest basil. Do you pick the biggest leaves from the bottom of the plant or pinch sprigs from the top?
I recommend the latter. As you can see in this photo, about 1 inch below where I pinched off a sprig, two more stalks shot out from either side. By harvesting in this method, you will have a full, bushy plant and increase your yields.
So what am I making with all this basil?
Pasta with Young Garlic, Tomatoes and Basil
And as the summer progresses, I will be adding it to all sorts of tomato dishes, and freezing some to take me through the winter.
Basil is my absolute favorite herb! I have to have it in my fridge at all times. I haven’t tried growing my own. I really should. 🙂