Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Cut just above a leaf node where two leaves grow
Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time
Trim the top stems first to encourage bushier growth
Pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear
Harvest regularly to prevent the plant from getting leggy
Remove any yellow, damaged, or dead leaves
Trim in the morning for best freshness
Avoid cutting into the woody lower stems
Leave several sets of leaves on each stem after trimming