Thinning out basil plants is one of the most important steps for growing a big, bushy harvest.   If you’ve ever planted basil seeds and ended up with a crowded tray of tiny seedlings, you know exactly why you need to learn how to thin out basil plants effectively.   When you thin out basil … Read more

You can tell if your basil plant is dying by checking for a few key warning signs like wilting stems, yellowing leaves, and a sudden stop in new growth.   A dying basil plant usually gives you plenty of clues before it completely gives up, and catching these signs early means you can often bring … Read more

You can tell basil pesto is bad by checking for a few key warning signs, but the most obvious one is always the smell.   If your pesto smells sour, rancid, or just off compared to the bright, garlicky, basil-forward aroma it should have, that’s your first clue it has turned.   Beyond the nose, … Read more

You can tell if basil needs water by checking the soil moisture, leaf firmness, and overall plant posture.   Knowing how to tell if basil needs water is one of the most important skills for keeping this fragrant herb alive and thriving.   Basil is a thirsty plant, but it also hates sitting in soggy … Read more

Here is how to tell if basil is overwatered by looking for a few key signs that your plant is struggling.   Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes basil growers make, and it can quickly lead to root rot and other issues.   When you know how to tell if basil is overwatered, … Read more

You can tell basil is ready to pick when it has at least three to four sets of true leaves on the stem. That’s the clearest sign your basil plant has matured enough to handle its first harvest without stunting its growth. Once you know how to tell if basil is ready to pick, you’ll … Read more