Never pick basil leaves in this way: it kills them instantly

When harvesting basil, many people make the mistake of plucking individual leaves directly from the stem. While this might seem harmless, it can negatively affect the plant’s health and growth. Here’s why and how to properly harvest basil:

Why You Shouldn’t Pluck Individual Leaves:

1.  Stress to the Plant: Removing single leaves can stress the plant, as it disrupts its growth pattern and leaves the stem exposed.
2.  Inhibits Regrowth: Plucking leaves incorrectly can prevent new shoots from forming, reducing the plant’s ability to grow bushier and produce more leaves in the future.
3.  Weakens the Stem: Leaving behind a “stub” from where the leaf was plucked can lead to disease or pest problems.
4.  Reduces Photosynthesis: Basil relies on its leaves for photosynthesis. Removing individual leaves haphazardly can hinder this process.

Proper Way to Harvest Basil:

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