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My basil leaves are so tiny

17 years ago

Hi,

I've been growing basil from plants every year. And every year, the basil leaves get smaller and smaller as they get taller. i do pinch off the flowers but the leaves are not getting any bigger. The leaves look healthy but they are just not as big as when i first brought them home. The plant is in an 8 inch pot on the south side of the house. Thanks to those who offer advice.

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Comments (2)

Daisyduckworth
17 years ago
Pot is MILES too small. Of course the plant (and its leaves) are going to be very stunted. (Much like a bonsai plant)

Best solution: put the plant in the garden and be prepared to be amazed at just how BIG a basil plant can get!
francescod
17 years ago
Also, cut your plant back. Don't just pinch out the flowers. You will get lots more leaf production if you regularly cut your basil back by about one-half when you harvest. A 12 inch pot is the minimum size needed for Italian type basils.

F. DeBaggio
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