Harvesting Incorrectly
Basil responds to a top pinch—snip just above the next leaf node to encourage bushy growth—whereas thyme benefits from cutting back the soft new shoots but letting some woody bases stand. I once hacked my thyme to the ground and had a sparse comeback!
For basil, harvest the newest pair of leaves, avoiding lower stems so new buds can form. For thyme, trim just above the woody section, letting the plant maintain structure. Done right, you’ll enjoy continuous, vigorous regrowth all season long.