Basil may grow tall and leggy in late summer for a few different reasons. Very hot weather encourages the production of flowers and eventually seeds called bolting, which draw energy away from leaf production. Improper light can cause basil to become leggy and etiolated. Overfertilizing may also cause basil plants to grow too quickly, creating a tall, leggy plant.
If your basil has already grown tall and leggy by late summer, you can take steps to revitalize its growth. Start by evaluating your plant’s light conditions and your watering habits. If your plant is potted and isn’t receiving full sun, consider moving it to a sunnier spot. Your plant should have at least six hours of full sun per day Be sure to water the plant on hot days with no rain. If you haven’t fertilized in a while, consider giving the plant a boost with a balanced fertilizer.
Regular pruning is very important. Pruning it regularly just above a leaf node will encourage fuller, bushier growth. Pinching back the tips of young plants and regularly harvesting stems from mature plants can create a fuller, bushier growth habit and encourage new growth.
Pinching off the tiny purple or white flowers, while they look pretty, take energy away from growing more fragrant, tender leaves. Removing them will help your basil redirect that energy to foliage. Providing consistent water during heat waves or periods of drought can help, too.
If you have been harvesting your basil regularly and cutting stems down to the lower nodes, new growth may look short and stubby for a while. Allow stems to grow at least 6 inches tall before harvesting again, and avoid removing more than 30 percent of total plant growth during any one pruning session. Plan to prune your basil plant like this every two to three weeks going forward. Avoid cutting basil plants down to the soil line. Instead, harvest by cutting just above a leaf node with two strong side shoots.
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