i have been growing basil at home. someone told me to pluck the little white flower buds.?

Question

Is this true?

Answer 1

yes, you need to deflower the basil to keep it growing. It's better to not let it flower at all unless you want the flowers. The more you pinch out the basil the bigger the bush. Don't just take the flowers, take leaves and stems too.

Answer 2

I've heard that too -- I was told to pick off the flowers or the plant would get bitter and go to seed and not be tasty. Of course, if you want basil SEED, then you should let it flower.

Not a big deal, just pinch off the stem right where the leaves stop. Pinching leaves off your basil keeps it young, and makes it bushier, too, which means more basil for you.

Here's an expert's advice:
http://www.gardenguides.com/plants/info/herbs/basil.asp

Answer 3

I cut them up and drop them into salads. They are strongly flavored and you might as well use them for flavoring and as an extra spice for salads or with sliced tomatoes and olive oil..

Answer 4

Yes you should.