Written by Benedict Vanheems | 12 August 2024
Fresh basil is a kitchen essential. Its vibrant flavor transforms dishes—think pesto for pasta, a fragrant topping for baked fish, or a burst of freshness in salads. But wouldn’t it be amazing if you could grow an endless supply of basil from a single plant? Well, you can! With a little know-how, you’ll never run out of this aromatic herb again.
How to Take Basil Cuttings
Propagating basil from cuttings is easy and requires only a few basics: a healthy basil stem, a sharp cutting tool, and some water. You can use basil plants from your garden, grocery store, or even pre-packaged bundles.
Step 1: Choose Healthy Stems
Select stems that are 3–6 inches (8–15 cm) long and avoid any that are flowering or about to flower, as these root poorly and grow slowly. Using sharp scissors, pruners, or a knife, cut just below a node (the point where leaves grow from the stem). A clean cut is crucial—avoid crushing the stem with a blunt tool, as this can hinder rooting.
Step 2: Remove Excess Leaves
New cuttings lack roots to absorb water, so minimize moisture loss by removing most of the leaves. Leave a few at the top to allow the cutting to photosynthesize and produce energy.
Step 3: Place in Water
Put the cuttings in a cup of water, ensuring the remaining leaves stay above the waterline. Place the cup on a bright, sunny windowsill, and roots will begin to form within a few days. Change the water if it becomes cloudy, and keep it topped up to maintain a clean, healthy environment.
The Benefits of Taking Cuttings
You might worry that taking cuttings weakens your basil plant, but it actually strengthens it. Cutting back a stem encourages the plant to grow bushier and healthier, producing even more leaves over time. This means more basil for your kitchen and a longer-lasting plant.
Caring for Basil Cuttings
Once your cuttings have developed roots, it’s time to pot them up. Use small pots or plugs filled with an all-purpose potting mix. Adding perlite to the mix can improve drainage, which basil—native to Mediterranean climates—thrives on.
Planting the Cutting
- Partially fill the pot with potting mix.
- Gently hold the cutting by its leaves (not the stem) as you fill the pot to the top.
- Lightly firm the soil around the cutting and water thoroughly.
Keep the potted cuttings in a warm, sunny spot and water regularly to encourage strong root growth.
Harvesting and Maintaining Your Basil
Within a month, your new basil plants will be ready to harvest. Regularly cutting stems not only provides fresh leaves for your recipes but also promotes bushier growth. Each time you take cuttings, you set the stage for even more abundant harvests in the future.
With this simple propagation technique, you can enjoy an endless supply of fresh basil, ensuring you’ll always have enough for your favorite dishes—from creamy pesto to fragrant garnishes. Let this perpetual cycle of growth keep your kitchen stocked with the flavors of summer year-round.