I've heard that I should start pruning my basil after it has grown its third node. But I'm a bit confused about the timing. Should I prune in between the third and fourth set of true leaves as soon as I see the fourth set starting to form? Or should I wait for the fourth set to grow a bit before I snip? Is it better to wait until the plant has its fifth or sixth set of true leaves and cut just above the third node? My main goal is to encourage my basil plants to grow as quickly and bushy as possible.
1 Answer
I usually trim my basil after it has two sets of real leaves. It works wonders! Once you snip above the second set, you'll see the plant start to branch out, which helps it grow really lush and sturdy. Just keep repeating that and it will multiply quickly!
That's cool! How long do you typically wait before you cut above the third set of leaves? Do you wait until they're spread out a bit, or do you snip them right after they show?