Harvesting and Drying Herbs

If your herb boxes, barrels or gardens are like mine now, there is an abundance of herbs. Since the growing season is winding down, its time to harvest any herbs that you want to use during winter.

Drying is the traditional method of preserving herbs. The ideal time to gather herbs for drying is before the plants begin to flower when the leaves are still green and tender. The younger, tender leaves at the tips of the plants contain the most flavor.

To harvest culinary and medicinal herb leaves, snip springs or the top six inches of each stem. Harvesting herbs for drying should always be done after the morning dew has evaporated.

Paper sack Drying Method~
An easy way to dry herb leaves is to place freshly picked leaves into a paper sack. Don’t pack the leaves too tightly, filling not beyond half full. Write the name of the herb on the front of the bag and the date. Fold the top of the bag down slightly and shake. Store in a dark, dry place and shake the bag at least once a day. In approximately a week, the herbs should be fully dried.

Dried Herb Storage~
To store the dried herbs, firmly pack in a glass jar, label contents and keep out of direct sunlight.

Using this method of drying and storing will help keep scoops of your favorite herbal teas and culinary spices on hand.

©Deborah Tukua, author of Pearls of Garden Wisdom.
www.hollycreekbooks.com

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