How to Harvest Herbs

Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Herbs and other Garden topics.

When is the best time of day to harvest herbs?

How to Harvest Herbs

Harvest herbs in the morning when the volatile oils are at their peak. You can dry your herbs by hanging them upside down in a cool dry place until they are brittle to the touch.

   

Comments

6/11/2009 7:18:09 PM
Colleen said:

This isn't as helpful as it could be. You don't say how to actually do the harvesting. Do you pull the entire herb out? Do you just clip off a leave? Do you just cut off half the stem? I'm brand new at this so if that's a dumb question then I guess I'm dumb, but I've never done it before and I don't want to waste the entire herb if I don't have to by doing it wrong. More information would be extremely helpful than just saying 'harvet it' when explaining how to harvest. Thanks!

Hello Colleen,

You bring up a wonderful point. When harvesting herbs it is best to cut off no more than one-third of the plant. Cut the herb stems, then remove the leaves once they are dry unless you are using a dehydrator. There is no need to dry the stems unless you plan to use them. If you are hanging the herbs to dry you will need to leave the stems intact until they are dry.
Cutting the herb stems will cause the herbs to branch and grow more. Many herbs are perennials and will come back every year. Once you have the herbs harvested, which is best done as early in the morning on a clear day if possible, you should quickly rinse them under cold running water. You do not want to rub or soak them as this will cause some of the essential oils to be removed. Herbs can then be hung, two to three to a bunch to dry or dried in a dehydrator. I hope this helps. Feel free to ask more questions if you have them.




Name:


URL: (optional)


Comment:


Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Garden Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Sheri Ann Richerson
Buy My Book