Create a Forest of Basil
Beautiful Basil Basics. How to Create A Forest of Basil!
Wondering how to achieve those bushy beautiful basil plants that make others green with envy? The secret to creating your very own basil oasis is revealed in this week’s newsletter. Stick around till the end to discover an easy trick that will transform your basil garden!
In case you missed our recent social media videos, we started with a nursery pot filled to the brim with basil seedlings—over 50 of them! We carefully separated each seedling into individual cells in a tray before potting them up into their own containers. From that humble $4 nursery pot, we cultivated a thriving collection of 48 individual basil plants!
Of course, the challenge arose when deciding where to plant all these basil wonders. With a touch of creativity and some serious searching (literally high and low), we found homes for them in fence planters, larger ground pots, our tomato bed, and any available space we could find. Because, let’s be honest, you can never have too much basil, especially when you can freeze it for later use!
The Trick for Beautiful Basil!
When the summer heat arrives, basil—like many other herbs—tends to bolt or quickly go to seed. But fear not, for we have a trick up our sleeves to prolong your basil harvest!
Basil plants have a unique growth pattern characterized by a main stem with two leaves and two nodes slightly above them. This growth continues until the plant decides to flower and set seed.
Understanding this growth pattern is key to effectively pruning basil and encouraging robust growth. To achieve a bushy plant, prune the main stem just above the two nodes. Look for a set of leaves, followed by a set of nodes, and trim the stem above these nodes. We recommend keeping at least two sets of leaves and nodes on the stem before pruning, allowing the plant to harness maximum energy from the sun.
When done correctly, two new stems will emerge from the pruned area, giving your basil plant a “Y” shape. Armed with this trick, you can repeat the process along the plant’s height, creating a lush, full-bodied basil plant abundant with flavorful leaves for your culinary delights!
5 Key Takeaways
1. Bolting Prevention: Basil has a tendency to bolt and go to seed quickly in hot weather. Pruning is a valuable technique to extend the harvest period and prevent premature bolting.
2. Growth Pattern: Understanding basil’s unique growth pattern is essential. It typically develops a main stem with two leaves and two nodes slightly above the leaves. This pattern continues until the plant flowers and goes to seed.
3. Pruning Technique: To encourage bushier growth, prune the main stem just above the two nodes. Aim to retain at least two sets of leaves and nodes on the stem before pruning to ensure optimal energy absorption from the sun.
4. Stimulating Growth: Proper pruning stimulates the plant to develop new stems from the pruned area, resulting in a “Y” shape and increased foliage production.
5. Repeat the Process: Continually apply pruning techniques throughout the basil plant’s height to create a dense, lush plant with abundant leaves for harvest and culinary use.
It’s That Easy!
We hope you found this week’s newsletter filled with valuable insights and inspiration for your kitchen garden endeavors! Remember, our journey doesn’t end here.
Connect with us on social media for even more gardening tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates. We love engaging with our community and hearing about your gardening experiences. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube to join the conversation and be part of our growing community of plant enthusiasts!
If you’re feeling inspired and have ideas bubbling up for your own kitchen garden project, we’d be thrilled to chat with you. Our team is here to offer guidance, share our expertise, and bring your garden dreams to life. Whether it’s a design consultation, construction services, or a tailored plan, we’re ready to embark on this exciting journey with you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out and start the conversation. Share your aspirations, ask questions, and let us help you turn your vision into a thriving reality. We can’t wait to be part of your kitchen garden success story!
We are here to help you achieve your gardening goals! Reach out with any questions that might come up throughout your journey.
We are excited to announce that there are some new DIY plans on our Etsy store. Whether you need some more storage in the garden, are looking to spruce up your curb appeal or are looking for a new way to grow your tomatoes, we have something for you!
Check it out here – https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/WillowLaneGardenCo
Best regards,
Tessa & Kyle
