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Pruning guide

How to prune genovese basil

Best time
Begin pinching once the plant has 3–4 pairs of leaves; continue every 1–2 weeks throughout the season
How often
Every 1–2 weeks during the growing season
Technique
Pinch or cut just above a pair of leaves — the plant will branch into two stems at that node. Never strip the lower leaves bare; leave at least two pairs on each stem. Remove all flower spikes promptly.

More genovese basil care

Pruning genovese basil — FAQ

When should I prune genovese basil?

Begin pinching once the plant has 3–4 pairs of leaves; continue every 1–2 weeks throughout the season. Pinch or cut just above a pair of leaves — the plant will branch into two stems at that node. Never strip the lower leaves bare; leave at least two pairs on each stem. Remove all flower spikes promptly.

How often does genovese basil need pruning?

Every 1–2 weeks during the growing season. Regular pinching is essential for Genovese basil. Pinch out the growing tip and any flower buds the moment they appear — this keeps the plant bushy, delays bolting, and sustains leaf production for weeks. Without pinching, plants go to seed quickly and leaves shrink and lose flavour. Harvest from the top down, always above a leaf pair.

How do you prune genovese basil?

Pinch or cut just above a pair of leaves — the plant will branch into two stems at that node. Never strip the lower leaves bare; leave at least two pairs on each stem. Remove all flower spikes promptly.