If you want your basil plant to produce more flowers, then you need to give it a little extra care in the form of pruning. Although it may seem counterintuitive, regular pruning will actually encourage your plant to produce more blooms. In this blog post, we’ll show you the basics of how to prune basil for more flowers.
The Basics of Pruning Basil for More Flowers.
To prune basil for more flowers, you will need a sharp pair of pruning shears and some basic knowledge of how to prune plants. It is also helpful to have a general idea of the plant’s growth habits.
When to Prune.
The best time to prune basil for more flowers is in late spring or early summer, after the plant has flowered and before it sets seed. This will give the plant time to recover from being cut back and produce new growth that can be used to produce more flowers.
How to Prune.
To prune basil for more flowers, start by cutting back the main stem by about one-third its length. Then, cut back any side stems that are longer than the main stem by about one-half their length. Finally, trim any remaining leaves so that they are no longer than 2-3 inches long.
Tips for Getting the Best Results.
Basil is a heavy feeder and benefits from being fertilized every 2-3 weeks with a water soluble fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer at half the recommended rate on the label to avoid burning the plant.
Avoid Over-Pruning.
It’s important to not over-prune basil or you’ll risk reducing the yield of both leaves and flowers. When pruning, remove no more than one third of the plant material. Also, avoid pruning in late summer as this can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers.
Mulch Around the Plant.
Mulching around basil plants helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool in hot weather. This can be especially beneficial if you live in an area with high summer temperatures. Use organic mulch such as straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves.
You can also use inorganic mulches such as black plastic or landscape fabric. Be sure to leave a few inches of space between the mulch and the stem of the plant to prevent rot.
Conclusion
Pruning basil is a great way to encourage more flowers. By following the tips in this blog post, you can get the best results. Remember to fertilize regularly, avoid over-pruning, and mulch around the plant. With a little care, you can enjoy an abundance of beautiful basil flowers all season long.
FAQ
How To Get Basil Seeds
In order to get the basil seeds from a plant you need to first let it flower and then develop seeds afterwards. In time these small seeds that develop will start to dry out slightly and then fall off from the plant. That’s when you collect them and either store them in a dry place or plant them straight away.
Basil Leaves Hanging Down
If you see the leaves on your basil plant start to hang down then that usually indicates the plant is in need of water as its wilting. Check the soil as it’s not too dry. Slightly damp is the ideal texture for the basil plant to grow in.
