Why is my tulsi turning woody?

Tulsi naturally becomes woody as it matures — this is normal for plants over 12–18 months old. To delay woodiness: prune regularly (cut stems back by one-third every 4–6 weeks) and pinch flower spikes as soon as they appear. Letting tulsi flower accelerates woody growth. Heavily woody plants can be rejuvenated by hard pruning to 10 cm above soil — new growth sprouts within 2–3 weeks. Replace plants annually for the most productive kitchen tulsi.