You are doing it all wrong. The right way to prune basil for a huge bushy look

There is a debate among gardeners about whether it’s better to use scissors or simply pinch off the tops of basil plants. Scissors provide a clean, precise cut, which is less stressful for the plant and reduces the risk of disease. This method is particularly useful for larger pruning tasks.
Pinching, on the other hand, can be convenient for quick, small cuts. It allows you to feel the plant and make adjustments on the fly. However, pinching can sometimes crush the stem, which may lead to damage if not done carefully. For best results, use scissors for major pruning and reserve pinching for minor adjustments.
8. How Much to Prune for a Bushy Basil Plant

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