Basil is on of summer’s favorite herbs—delicious, fragrant, and perfect in everything from pasta to pesto. But did you know it’s also one of the best herbs you can grow for pollinators?
That’s right—bees love basil, especially when you let it bloom.
So, during Pollinator Week, why not plant a little extra? One for you, one for the bees. 🐝
Once basil starts to flower, it puts less energy into leaf production and the flavor can become a little stronger or slightly bitter. But that doesn’t mean you have to give it all up to the bees!
Here’s how to enjoy basil and help pollinators:
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Grow more than one plant. Dedicate one to flower and feed the bees, and pinch back the flowers on the others for harvesting leaves.
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Harvest early and often. Regular pinching delays flowering and gives you bushier plants with more tender leaves.
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Leave one or two to bolt. The small white or purple flowers are pollinator magnets, and flowering basil still offers plenty of usable leaves.
When basil flowers, it produces small clusters of blooms filled with nectar. These are especially attractive to bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. By letting some of your basil bloom:
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You support pollinators in your area
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You bring more “good bugs” into your vegetable garden
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You help build a healthy, thriving ecosystem in your own backyard
Growing Tips:
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Plant in full sun after all danger or frost.
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Keep the soil moist but not soggy
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Harvest regularly to encourage more growth
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Pinch off the top set of leaves to delay flowering—or let it bloom if you’re growing it for pollinators.
Garden Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe you can whip up in minutes—perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or freezing for later!
🌿 Ingredients:
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2 cups packed fresh basil leaves (no flowers or stems)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
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1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a more affordable option)
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2 garlic cloves, peeled
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
🥣 Instructions:
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Add basil, garlic, and nuts to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
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Add Parmesan and pulse again.
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Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
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Taste and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
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Use immediately or store in the fridge for 3–4 days (or freeze in ice cube trays for later use!).
Fresh Basil Dressing
1/2 cup wine vinegar
1-1/4 teaspoon sugar
salt and pepper to taste
6 T fresh basil leaves, minced
1 cup olive oil
Combine first 2 ingredients, blend in salt, pepper, and basil. Using a whisk, gradually beat in oil. Makes approximately 1 3/4 cup.
If you’ve ever struggled between pinching basil for dinner or letting it flower, you don’t have to choose. Let one plant bloom for the bees, and keep harvesting from the rest. It’s a simple way to support pollinators and enjoy a taste of summer all season long.
Happy Pollinator Week—go plant some basil for both your plate and your pollinators!
Happy Gardening
Karen