Different stages of harvesting and easiest preserving my home grown herbs.
1) Grow herbs in containers or garden. Make sure to use plant markers to remind yourself of herb name.
2) Harvest the healthiest growth leaves
3) Rinse to remove dust and pat gently with paper towel. Leave on counter our outside in sunshine for a little while until no longer wet.
4) Place herbs loosely in plain paper bags, roll top of bag closed and place standing upright in a dark, warm place (I.e. top of cabinet in laundry room). Leave alone until herbs are completely dried out, usually a few weeks.
5). Strip leaves off branches and store in glass jars in a cool, dark cupboard or drawer. I use empty store-bought jars or larger mason jars. Mark jar with ‘stored on’ date.
Do not crush leaves before storing, rather crush or grind them just prior to use in recipes to keep oils freshest.
Repeat this process regularly throughout the growing season to keep plant growing well and getting the most out of your herb plants.
