To avoid problem with your own homegrown basil, it is important to be as gentle as possible.
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Once a plant has reached six leaves, it is big enough to harvest from.
To keep your plant producing plenty of tasty leaves all season, trim back any flowering stalks as they appear.
Basil leaves are thick and oily, making them a challenge to air dry, but it can be done with a little patience.
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If needed, start by rinsing your basil to remove any bugs or dirt. Once washed, lay the branches down on a piece of paper towel and allow them to dry fully before moving on.
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