What to do when your basil is growing like crazy, needs to be cut back, but you've already made tons of pesto? Take one or more of your cuttings and give them to a friend! Below I have pictures for when and how to grow a new basil plant from a cutting.
Clipping: Once your existing basil plant gets taller you will want to prune it to keep the leaves growing and sweet. Clip each stalk down to a few inches, clipping above a knot - where two leaves fork out (see right).
Day 1: Trim off extra leaves on the bottom so you have 2-3 inches clear. Stick the cutting in water and wait. I put mine on the coffee table where it gets a little sun, but not excessive direct light, and it did well.
Day 9: Just as I was about to give up on any roots, I noticed a few shoots coming out. Hooray, a success!
Day 11: Two more days of growth, good process.
Day 13: Gone for the weekend and once I got back I was surprised to see how quickly the roots had grown. Looks ready for planting!
Pot: Once the roots are at least an inch long, pot your basil in soil. I use a little disposable cup, tied with ribbon, so I can give away as a gift.