How to Propagate Basil Through Cuttings

Every vital, healthy basil shoot has what it takes to become an independent herb plant. In the following, we will explain to you how to grow a new basil plant from cuttings within a short period of time.

How to Cut Basil Cuttings Properly

The propagation of basil by means of cuttings aims at the fact that the cut shoots form their own roots.

For the plan to succeed, select strong shoot tips without buds. Cut them off at a length of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) with a sharp, disinfected knife. Locate the cut just below a leaf base. The ideal cut is slightly oblique.

How to Make Basil Cuttings Root

To make basil cuttings root properly you first need to defoliate the lower half of the cuttings. Following this, place the cuttings in a glass of water.

A small piece of charcoal prevents the formation of rot. In a semi-shaded place, at temperatures above 68 °F (20 °C), the first tender roots will develop within a week.

Proceed as follows to root your basil cuttings:

  • Fill small seedling pots halfway with lean herb or pricking out soil.
  • Press a small hollow into the soil with a pricking rod or a spoon.
  • Place a rooted cutting in the middle and fill up with substrate until just below the rim of the pot.

After watering, the formation of the root system is best continued in a bright, warm window place.

When the first sprouts appear and the first roots grow out of the soil opening, repot the young plants in a nutrient-rich, well-drained substrate. Alternatively, plant the basil outside in your herb bed.

Destemming Promotes Bushy Growth in Basil

To ensure that rooted basil shoots branch lushly, regular pruning makes a valuable contribution.

From a growth height of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm), repeatedly cut off the shoot tips. To do this, place the knife or scissors just above a pair of leaves.

How to Speed Up Rooting in Basil

If you can’t wait for your basil shoots to root, use willow water to speed up the process. Pour boiling water over shredded, one-year-old willow rods and let them infuse for 24 hours.

There will be natural growth hormones in abundance in this strained decoction. The salicylic acid contained in it also prevents rotting.