When basil is ready to be picked?

Question

Have planted in my garden and is about 9 inches now

Answer 1

just pick a few leaves as needed, do not strip the plant and shoyuld last for ages, esp if moved indoors

Answer 2

Pick your basil!! You can actually use basil when the plant is very young, but it should get established and grow bushy.  Keep clipping it to encourage new growth, and it should last all season.  I grow my basil in a sunny window indoors so I have it all year round.  Bug free, too! :)