Pinzieren (in German pinzieren - "remove the end") is called the removal of the top of the shoot from the plant, in order to strengthen the development of its lateral parts instead of vertical growth. In a different way, this process is called pinching and is used in floriculture and horticulture when growing plants in the open field or at home.
However, a completely different ways of nipping different types of crops. How to pinch the growing basil and whether to do it?
Does the plant need pinching?
To some it may seem that this action may ruin the still weak sprouts. It's a delusion. On the contrary nipping wakes kidneys. And instead of a lonely long branch you will get a lush bush with a good harvest!
What does the pinout give?
- Pinching is the key to getting a fluffy basil bush with lots of leaves, that is, a good harvest.
- In addition, pinching delays flowering plants. After all, when flowering, this plant loses its taste. Therefore, it is necessary to be attentive and pinch at the basil even the newly appeared inflorescences.
When to do?
After a month and a half, after the basil seedlings have risen, 4-6 true leaves will appear on the sprouts. And at this time you need to harvest the first harvest! Feel free to pinch 2 leaves from the tips.
How to carry out the procedure?
When three sets of true leaves appear on the basilica, it is necessary to immediately pinch its tip, that is, pinch it.
Cut with scissors or pinch off the stem just above the small leaves, that are just starting to grow out of the sinuses. This procedure should be repeated at intervals of several weeks.
If you only need a few leaves to prepare a dish or drink, it is best to choose older side leaves.
It is necessary to pinch off such leaves at the junction with the main stem of the plant, then it will preserve health and it will be better to grow, that is, to give more fragrant foliage.
Important! Inflorescences must be removed by cutting a bud and two leaves that are under it.
Pinching errors
- You can not pinch the old leaves at the base of the stem. These leaves are busy photosynthesis! Cut off the young shoots. But not under the root, but leaving a stem of 1-2 cm above the lower pair of leaves.
- Do not let the basilica bloom. With the appearance of inflorescences, the plant does not have any strength for greens. As a result, the crop loses its taste and flavor.
- Do not take a big break in the pinch. Cut the leaves need as often as possible, and the plant will be better to bush.
- Do not cut the lower shoots. If you do, basil will grow in height, and the harvest will be catastrophically low.
If you follow all the nuances, you will receive an irreplaceable fragrant spice that will add uniqueness to your dishes and drinks!
