The bugs eating my basil leaves are most commonly aphids, Japanese beetles, slugs, and earwigs. These pests can turn your lush basil into a lacy, holey mess almost overnight, and it’s frustrating to see your hard work disappear.   If you’ve been noticing irregular holes, chewed edges, or tiny speckles on your basil, there’s a … Read more

Several different bugs eat basil leaves, and the most common culprits are Japanese beetles, slugs, and aphids. These pests can quickly turn your beautiful basil plant into a lacy skeleton if you don’t act fast.   When you notice holes in your basil leaves, it’s easy to panic, but identifying the specific bug that eats … Read more

Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and fungus gnats are the bugs most commonly attracted to basil.   These pests love the tender leaves, sweet sap, and moist soil that basil naturally provides.   If you’ve noticed tiny holes, sticky residue, or webbing on your basil, you’re likely dealing with one of these hungry visitors.   The … Read more

You should wash fresh basil leaves before using them, but only right before you’re ready to cook.   Washing fresh basil leaves is a smart habit that removes dirt, tiny bugs, and any lingering residue from the garden or store.   But if you wash fresh basil leaves too early and store them damp, you’ll … Read more

You should wash fresh basil, but you need to do it the right way to keep those tender leaves fresh and flavorful.   Washing fresh basil is a simple step that removes dirt, tiny insects, and any lingering residue, but rinsing it under a harsh tap can bruise the leaves or make them waterlogged.   … Read more

You should wash basil leaves before using them, but the way you wash them matters just as much as whether you wash basil at all.   Many home cooks wonder if washing basil leaves is truly necessary, especially when they’re plucked fresh from the garden or bought in a bunch at the store.   The … Read more