Trim the cut ends of the basil and place the basil in a glass of water. Ensure that no basil leaves are touching the water. Cover the whole jar including the leaves with a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator.

Alternatively, you may pick the leaves off the stems and lay them out on a single layer of paper towel / kitchen towel, roll the towel up and place it in a plastic big. Store in refrigerator. 

1 week for maximum freshness and flavour. Store as packed.