Growing Basil - When to Pick and Uses

HOW TO PICK BASIL

Ideally, you will be picking basil before the plant flowers. If the plant begins to flower, you can cut off the stem on which the flower is growing to force the plant to keep producing leaves. Leaves will be tougher and possibly less tasty after blooms have occurred.

1/3 Method:

Use a scissors to cut off the top 1/3 of the plant down to the set of leaves below those being harvested. I end up getting two large handfuls of basil every week or two depending on weather. Basil will branch into two new stems where you cut off the existing stem creating even more leaves to use!

Single Leaf:

 Pinch off individual leaves as needed. Watch for buds forming if you are not using basil regularly.

 For fullest flavor, use fresh basil immediately. Basil can also be dried for later use. You may use a dehydrator, low temp oven, hanging stems, or cookie cooling rack. If laying to dry, flip the leaves every few days until dried to prevent mold from forming. If drying isn't your thing, why not try freezing basil? Add basil leaves to a food processor with just enough oil to make a paste. Freeze in a bag or ice cube tray for use in your favorite recipes.

USES



There are numerous varieties of basil including Thai, lemon, sweet, and cinnamon. Pick your favorite when planting. Basil oil is said to have antioxidants and antibacterial properties as well as being rich in vitamins. Fresh basil can provide up to 27% of your daily Vitamin K in 2 tablespoons minced. It is also high in Magnesium, Manganese, and Vitamin A making it great for heart health.

There are claims of basil having anti-bacterial properties and anti-inflammatory effects. It may help with rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, reducing fever, coughs, kidney stones, stress relief, insect bites, headaches, and stress reduction. Intake methods may vary depending on ailment being treated.

Not interested in growing basil?

DISCLAIMER: Treatments listed above are guidelines and do not replace advice/treatment from your medical provider. Seek advice from your physician before treating an ailment.

Basil Tea

Fresh: Add 2 Tbsp fresh cut basil leaves to 1 cup boiling water. Steep 7-10 minutes.

Dried: Place 2 Tbsp dried basil in a tea infuser and place in teapot with 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 4-5 minutes. Longer steep times with produce a stronger tea.

Sweeten to taste with sugar, agave, or honey.  Tea may also be made with milk or milk included as an additive before serving.