Basil is a popular culinary herb. It can be used in a wide variety of cuisines. While it is one of the easier to grow herbs, many people are not sure what to do with it once it is grown. There are some harvesting herb secrets that you can use to ensure you get optimal flavor and fragrance from your basil.
The best time to harvest basil is during the morning just prior to when the plant begins to flower. This is because the essential oils in the plant are at their highest concentration at this time. The night before you plant to harvest, you want to water the plant in order to wash away any dust or other residue that may be clinging to the plant.
The following morning, wait until all dew has dried on the plants before you begin harvesting. Do not wait too long, however, as you risk harvesting in the heat of the afternoon sun, which can sap the flavor and aroma of your herbs.
If your plant is weak, you may want to harvest in the evenings. This is less stressful on the plant. However, you sacrifice flavor.
The age of your plant should play a role in your harvesting choice. In young plants, you want to harvest lightly, taking only a few leaves from the top. In more established plants, you can harvest more vigorously, but take care that no more than one third of the plant is taken.
For many gardeners, the exact method of harvesting basil is a matter of preference. Some gardeners prefer to harvest from the sides, while others like harvesting from the top. Harvesting from the top results in bushier plants. Harvesting from the sides will give your plant a tall, slender look larsremodel.com.
You can choose to harvest only leaves or the entire stem. Aesthetically, it is better to harvest entire stems. Otherwise, your plant is left with bare stems, which can be unattractive.
In younger plants, you can usually use your fingers to pinch what you need. In more established plants, it may be necessary to use scissors or a knife. If you have had your basil plant for several years, you may prefer to use pruning shears as they are sturdier against thicker stems.
To use fresh, simply rinse leaves prior to using in your cooking. To preserve your harvest, you can dry or freeze. If drying, it is easier to harvest the stem and allow leaves to dry on the stem. Once completely dry, the leaves come right off the stem.
When freezing, you can line up leaves and snip right beside the stem for fast removal. If you plan to use your basil in soups or stews, place leaves in ice trays and cover with water or broth, then freeze. The basil cubes can be added as needed to your soups.
Ideally, you want to use your basil fresh. Freezing is your second best option. While dried basil retains some of its flavor, it is not as robust as the others. Some gardeners put their basil into oil or vinegar to let those liquids take on the herb’s flavor, then remove the basil.