Jun 17, Harvesting Herbs,harvesting and drying herbs

Harvesting Herbs

One of the first guidelines in harvesting herbs is to harvest early in the morning. Right after the morning dew dries is the ideal picking time. However, you want to pick them before the sun has risen very high in the sky and warmed the herbs considerably. The timing is important because the necessary oils that give herbs its fragrance and flavor lose their characteristic qualities when overexposed to heat.

A cool, sunny, dry morning is best for herbs harvesting. Wet leaves require a longer drying period before you can store them. If you plan to use fresh herbs, pick and use those as needed.

The intended use, climate, and maturity of the plant are all influences on the timing of the harvest. Cold climate gardeners have fewer chances to harvest and often elect to grow herbs indoors. Herb gardens grown in warmer regions have the advantage of a longer growing season.

Avoid heavy harvests of perennial herbs during the first year of growth. This allows them to establish themselves and to encourage root growth. You may trim them slightly to promote bushiness.

0 Responses