Once the nights become cold, it'll be time to clear your Basil. The leaves will not withstand the lower temperatures in Autumn. 

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This plant has been growing strong in the polytunnel, though you can grow it in a sunny spot outside. This lovely herb has given plenty of harvests this year.

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Check out this lesson with Charles to find out about harvesting basil leaves in the summer: https://youtu.be/fvYesgVfI70

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When it's time to clear the plant itself, it will have gone to seed, with long flower heads. Chop the plant up with secateurs, it will have a sturdy, woody stalk. All the cuttings can go in the compost bin.

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Using the No Dig best practice, leave the roots in the ground, clearing the plant at soil level. 

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If you still have plenty of basil bush, when you come to clear the plant, Kate's top tip for preserving them is by blitzing & freezing in ice cube trays, ready to pop in pasta sauces or salsa verde.