Basil is a real staple ingredient in many kitchens. The fragrant green herb is used a lot in different cuisines, especially Italian, as it adds a lovely flavour to pasta, pizza and more. 

You've probably bought a basil plant from the supermarket at least once, but thrown it away once you've used it or it's started to wilt. However, it's so easy to keep them thriving for much longer, allowing you to enjoy fresh basil whenever you like. The experts at Gardening Soul have lifted the lid on how to grow a 'big and bushy' basil plant every time. 

The key to a big, thriving plant comes after you've already grown it however. But before then, there are a few key things that all gardeners should know.

The experts say that basil can be grown in plastic or terracotta pots, but the main thing to remember is to make sure it has drainage holes. It also needs loose, nutrient-rich soil that drains well while retaining moisture. Basil plants need plenty of light, so make sure the plant is placed in direct sunlight for six to eight hours per day. 

However, the most important step in growing basil is to prune or cut it regularly. According to the experts, this is what's going to make it grow as big and full as possible. 

You should begin harvesting when the plant has six to eight true leaves, pinching off the top one to two inches just above a pair of leaf nodes. Doing it this way will help to encourage new growth. 

Not only does regular pruning improve the taste and yield of your basil, but it'll also make it last longer, as it'll stop it from going to seed. 

Finally, consistent watering is also hugely important. Watering your plant too much can lead to rot, but basil does like evenly moist soil, so always check before giving it a drink. 

You should water when the top inch of soil feels dry, pouring it in at the base rather than the leaves to help reduce the risk of rotting. Inconsistent watering can caue leaf curl, yellowing, and reduced growth, so maintaining a consistent routine is so important.