Drying Herbs

I have recently planted an herb garden in ceramic pots on my fence.  They are growing so quickly that I really need to harvest them and begin drying them for later use.

For those of you that have never grown your own herbs, I am learning that many herbs (especially my mint) tend to take on a whole life of their own.  They grow very quickly and seems to flourish.  My black thumb has yet to kill off too many of the herbs I have planted.  (I must admit the basil and oregano did not survive.)

Anyways... after looking at several sites on drying herbs, it seems that everyone is doing it in very much the same manner.  If you know of a way that works better for you, please share.  I can always use some good advice.

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How to Dry Herbs

1.  Harvest the herbs before the plant begins to flower to get the best flavor from your herbs.

2.  Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut large stems from the plant.  Remove any damaged or otherwise imperfect leaves from the plant.  Also, remove the lower leaves furthest from where the plant will flower.  These leaves have very little flavor.

3.  Rinse herbs in cold water and dry with a towel.  If the plant is still fairly wet, allow to air dry on the towel a bit longer.  You definitely do not want to breed mold.

4.  Gather 5 or 6 stems and tie together.  If the herbs are more water soluble, make even smaller bundles to allow them to dry more completely.

5.  Place herbs upside down in a brown paper bag.  Make sure to cut some holes in the bag for air circulation.

6.  Tie the top of the bag to the stems and hang in a warm, airy room.

7.  Check the herbs once a week until dry.  If any of the herbs begin to mold, you must throw away the entire bunch.

How to Store Dried Herbs

1.  Remove the leaves from the stem.  Discard stems.

2.  Place leaves in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

*NOTE*  Storing "whole" leaves has the added benefit of a stronger flavor.