How to Cut the Flowers Off Basil

Basil plants blossom with attractive white or purple flowers, which attract bees and complement salads. Unfortunately, flowering takes up most of the herb's energy, resulting in fewer leaves with a bitter taste. Once the flower goes to seed, basil stops producing leaves altogether and eventually dies. Basil is most commonly grown for its leaves, which complement tomato and pasta dishes, salads and curries. Remove flowers as soon as possible to prolong your plant's life and ensure good-quality leaves.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Inspect your basil crops regularly for signs of flower buds. Flower buds appear in green clusters.

   • 2

     Pinch buds with your fingers as soon as they emerge.

   • 3

     Pinch flowers or cut them off with sharp scissors if you didn't catch them in their bud stage. Use the flowers in soups or salads.