Question 1

1. What Do Holes In Basil Leaves Mean?

Accepted Answer

If you find out holes in your basil plant leaves, it directs you to the fact that something is feeding on them. Even if small in size, remove these damaged leaves first. This is because sometimes the pests nibbling on your leaves tend to lay eggs near the area where they have eaten, and others are small enough to hide on the leaf or in the hole. Moreover, remove the leaves that are brown, abnormally moist, limp, or smell off.

Question 2

2. Is it Safe to Eat Basil With Holes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can eat basil leaves with holes in them. If the hole is due to insects, the leaves are safe to eat. However, if they are damaged by an animal, you should avoid them and throw them away. This is because it poses a threat to the transmission of diseases.

Question 3

3. Can You Keep Basil Indoors?

Accepted Answer

Of course, you can. In fact, bringing your basil plants indoors will indeed protect them from pests. However, a basil plant requires around 6 hours of sun. But if your house is much colder or warmer than the outdoors, you need to first make your basil acclimatized and then shift it permanently indoors. This is because plants typically don’t like sudden shifts in climate and subsequently die.

Plant Clinic

What Is Eating My Basil Leaves & How To Avoid It?