Those of you who live along the central coast know that growing basil is a challenge. Growing tomatoes and basil is nearly impossible! The weather here seldom gets over 70 degrees and both tomatoes and basil need heat. Inland, you have little trouble with these two summer menu essentials, but here in Cambria, we have work hard to get the tomato/basil fusion on our tables.
One thing I’ve learned and am determined to do this year is stay on top of the whole “pinching back” routine. My cilantro, parsley, and oregano all bolted and went to seed the minute I turned my back. I’ve planted another crop and will not allow such shenanigans to happen again! The only way I know to extend herb production is to continue to pinch back branches (using the cuttings for cooking, of course) and forcing the plant to continue to produce side branches and more yummy flavor.
This year I put a few basil plants in a pot so I could keep it in the warmest part of my garden. I don’t expect to get enough for pesto but will have a few leaves for my favorite basil, tomato, and mozzarella salad. To keep it growing I’ve pinched back the basil, starting when the plant is young. Cut or pinch just above the first set of leaves. Don’t worry, the nodes under these little leaves will grow side branches making a fuller plant. You can also do this “pinching back” with cilantro, parsley, and other herbs. If you do not cut or pinch back herbs, your plant will grow upward and produce flowers at the top. Essentially, this will be the end of your herbal harvest.
If you are new to growing basil, a five-minute YouTube lesson on “How to Grow Basil” might be helpful. It’s not too late to grow basil this year. Start them from seeds if your climate is warm. Buy started plants if you live along the coast. So go for it! What is summer without a homegrown tomato and its “sidekick” basil? And remember, if all else fails there’s always the farmer’s market!
I didn’t know about the pinching back part of growing basil. I’ll have to give it a try. I would like the small planter bed to be for herbs. Basil is such a pretty green plant.
Pretty, Callie, and oh so tasty! It’s not around long so enjoy it while you can.
Hi Lee and Don,
Our garden is growing, and more fun than we ever expected. Thanks for the tips on pinching back herbs. I just pinched back the basil, and will go out tomorrow morning and do the same to the oregano. We have tomatoes, summer squash, watermelon, cucumber, red, orange and Jalapeño peppers, parsley, oregano and thyme. Robert thinks the watermelon will just take over the garden :)) Loved reading your blog and seeing your hencam. Take care, Janet & Robert
I’m so glad your garden is doing well, Janet. You have a perfect sunny hilltop location! You can grow things that we cannot; like watermelon and peppers. Our tomatoes plants look beautiful but few fruit. Too cool! It is “fun growing your own”, isn’t it!