I don't think Neem should be used on the basil. I use it on heavier, shiny foliage. Anything fuzzy or soft can't take Neem, IMHO. I'm pretty sure it will turn the basil leaves dark and they will roast in the sun. I'm no expert, but that's my opinion on it. Also, if you've ever smelled Neem Oil, I don't think you could stand to eat the basil!

To keep basil, you can chop it up and freeze it in ice cube (small cube) trays. Use a food processor and a little EVOO. Obviously, it's not like those wonderful fresh leaves, but you can pop those frozen cubes straight into your cooking.

Cameron

Thank you Cameron. I'll probably harvest them now, because I'd rather have frozen than none at all!!

Thank you again.

One other thought is you could cover it with row cover or tulle or the type of netting that used to be used under dresses. Anything nearly sheer would work- you're just making a barrier for them.

Can you get row covers and cover the plants for the few days you will be gone? It's not ideal, but the JBs couldn't get to them through the covers. If no row covers, can you get a section of fiberglass window screen big enough to completely cover them? It would give more shade and less thorough coverage, but might give enough coverage to protect at least some of the plants. Both materials would need to be pinned to the ground with chunks of 2x4s or pins, so the beetles couldn't get under them. Gauzey netting might also work, esp. if pinned down well.

For a few days, the coverage should have no affect on the herbs, esp. the basil, and especially if you pick the tallest ones before you go and either hang them to dry or chop them and freeze them with water.

dibbit it looks like you and i were thinking alike & posting at the same time! LOL

Tammy, yeah, I think I was writing longer than you! Dare I say, Great minds...? Nah, it doesn't apply to me!

Deirdre, what did you decide to do? Inquiring minds want to know...