Harvesting Herbs

When gathering herbs for immediate use, there are few rules to keep in mind. For single-stemmed herbs such as basil and salt, contains only the center point. This encourages bushy growth. Use the tops and buds of flowers, chervil, thyme and mint. Use leaves and stems of parsley on your system and leave the important farming center alone.A requires a bit "of work, but the reward for all the years are well worth it. You can get 2-3 major cuts both annual and perennial grasses before the end of the season. The last harvest should be in the fall to give the possibility of new growth to harden off before the first frost.Choose a sunny morning, just after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is hot enough to influence oil content in the leaves and flowers. Be careful to collect and use only healthy plants. perennial grasses can be reduced by one third, while the year can be cut to three inches of soil surface.Rinse fresh cut herbs in cold water and towels to absorb excess moisture. Tie the stems together (dental floss works well), in packages of five or six and hang in a place dry, well ventilated place away from direct sunlight and moisture. The temperature should not exceed 85 degrees. Given that herbs should not be kept until they are completely dry, it is important to test them by putting a stick in a airtight container overnight. If the condensation, superior drying plants needed.Once are dry, clean and store them in airtight containers (glass containers are best) and keep away from direct sunlight. Herbs lose their effectiveness over time, so we recommend maintained for a maximum period of one year.In 1985, Briscoe White opened Growers Market at a Texaco station abandoned in a busy street corner in urban Richmond, Virginia. The building has grown along the years and is now 5 distinct growing environments of 5 acres under cover. Briscoe has over 25 years experience in gardening. For more information on gardening products or gardening tips herbs herbs bwhite @ thegrowersexchange. com please contact Briscoe White