There is a misconception that goes around, which is ‘Harvesting or trimming herbs is not a good thing for your plants.’ Well, nothing can be further from the truth.
You should know, it is necessary to trim, harvest and care your herbs as frequently as possible. Doing such a thing helps them grow faster and bring improved foliage.
Now that we know that harvesting and trimming herbs is a good thing, it is time that we start learning how to trim and cut herb.
Now, that is a very simple ordeal. And, in this article, we shall be telling you everything regarding the process. So, without further ado, allow us to get started!
What Are the Essential Tools?
To have the best results, you need the right tools for the job. So, are you thinking about what tools you will be needing? Well, we have the perfect answers for you right here!
You will find all the necessary information in this section. Since that is clear, we can now start!
The tools
Firstly, you need to get the tools. And, believe us, you do not need any complex utensils for the task. Here is a list of the things, along with the reasons why they are necessary:
- Scissors or Knives
These are one of the key tools that you will require for trims and cuts. Go to any hardware store, supermarket, or convenience store and get yourself a pair.
Now, a knife might not be the best option in this case. Cutting small branches and stems with these is not a very simple task.
Instead, we suggest that you opt for scissors or clippers. These offer superior control and are very easy to use. By the way, before you use any of them, make sure that you have washed them.
- Gloves
Gloves are another necessity. You see, plants are living organisms at the end of the day. Therefore, using your hands, which might contain harmful germs, might hinder or even stop the growth of your vegetation. Ergo, we suggest that you opt for gloves.
Rubber gloves are the best choice in this case. They are easy to carry; you can clean them using detergent and water and place them practically anywhere in your home.
However, if you want to use your hand, we suggest that you wash your hand before starting work.
- Basket
You will need a basketto carry all the recent leaves. With herbs like basil, chive, and similar herbs, you would have to do the trimming pretty often. Therefore, it would not be very pleasant if you do not have the necessary utensils to carry them around.
How to Use the Tools?
Since we know what you would need to make sure you have a successful and satisfactory trimming experience, we shall now be telling you how you can do the task without much of an issue.
Here are some tricks that you can use to ensure you can carry out the task more effortlessly.
- When you are using the scissors or clippers, ensure that you are pulling on a branch, stem, or leaf. By doing that, you can make sure that the plant is taught, which will enable you to do the task even more effortlessly.
- Use clean gloves. So, before you touch anything, we suggest that you either clean your hand or the gloves. Simply use soap and water. By the way, some herbs come with spikes or other defensive mechanisms. Hence, using the glove would a wise decision.
- After every clip, stash them on the basket. It is easier to carry that way!
How to Trim or Cut Herbs?
Now that we have a good idea regarding the topic, it is time that gets to the main parts of the article. In this paragraph, we shall be telling you how to do the task effectively.
Step 1: Decide from Where and When to Cut
If you want the best herb growth, you do not only need the perfect soil for herbs, but you also require several other stuff. One of them is trimming and taking care of them. Now, to cut and trim your herbs, you have to do them at the right spot.
For example, with chives or basils, you have to cut them one inch from the soil. They will grow back in a week or so. On the other hand, with herbs like cilantro, you have to cut the branches. So, understanding this is very crucial.
You can follow a very simple concept in this case. If you are trimming stem plants, you can cut them from the soil (1-inch from the soil).
On the contrary, if you are working with an herb that has numerous leaves and branches, we suggest that you cut them from there.
Step 2: Avoid Hurting the Plant
When you are cutting, it is essential that you avoid any unnecessary movement. Abstain from cutting two or more leaves at a time. Make sure that you are scissor or clipper is sharp. Once you have the satisfactory hold, with smooth movement, trim the plant.
There is no need to cut the leaves or anything. You see, haphazardly cutting the plant will put it in a depressing environment, which will cause it not to bring a good harvest and might even result in the death of the plant.
Step 3: Put Them in the Basket
Don’t keep two or more plants in your hand. If you have a handful, there is a chance that the jampacked situation will cause you to squash the delicate organism. Ergo, we suggest that you place them in the basket for every trim that you make.
Final Words
Bringing up plants tends to be a difficult thing. But if you do know how to trim and curt herbs, how to plant them, and numerous other things, you are safe. So, if you are planning to start your own herb garden, you must know about these. also if you need to know how to Water Herbs check this link.
