If you have a herb garden, hopefully you have been enjoying the fresh herbs all summer. If you are like me, you may wish to harvest a good quantity at this time to keep you supplied during the winter months. Phyllis Hobson (Garden Way Publishing) provides some useful information on harvesting and drying. First, cutting herbs with a scissors or pruning shears will allow for further growth and harvesting. Dry the leaves on the stems. If you have a commercial dehydrator you may choose to use it. If not, take a bunch of your harvested herbs and tie the stems together with twine or a twist tie. Then hang them upside down from a coat hanger. Place them in a cool, dry place for several weeks until dry. This will concentrate the flavors (oils) in the leaves which you intend to eat. Once dry, you can harvest the leaves from the stems and keep for your winter cooking enjoyment. If you have a favorite recipe please feel free to post it on our web site for all to enjoy!

Happy cooking and happy gardening!
Jeff