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Old July 29, 2008   #2
Suze
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Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Texas
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Thoughout the season, I periodically cut or pinch basil plants back a bit to keep the fresh, tender new growth coming. I wait until towards the end of the season to let them go to seed, or the plants slow down and the foliage can get tough and bitter.

When the bloom spires start to brown up on the plants, I cut them off and shake over a paper plate to get the tiny seeds out. Then I let seed dry for a week or so before putting it up. Mature seed should be black.

Basil can cross pollinate, so if you are growing more than one variety, keep that in mind and try to put a little physical distance between the different vars if you can. I don't think it would be practical to try and securely bag those long bloom spires.
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