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  • From: OakCamp2 AT aol.com
  • To: market-farming AT lists.ibiblio.org
  • Subject: Re: [Market-farming] A couple of questions for more experienced farmers
  • Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 18:34:30 EDT

Hi Allan,

Herbs have the best flavor when they are in full bloom.  Harvest about 1/3 of the plant (not including the flowers in this measurement).  They can be dried in bunches with the flowers intact and used as either culinary bundles or put into wreaths.  Sage, oregano, thyme, rosemary, lavender, horehound, lemon balm, even some basils can be dried and add wonderful color and smell to a wreath.  Dry them in an airy, dark area.  If they are to be used for culinary purposes, keep them dust free by placing paper bags over the bundles.  The trick is to get them to dry as fast as possible while keeping their exposure to direct light a minimum.  Light will fade the flowers and leaves to an unattractive brown.  Let them come into full flower again before harvesting the top third again.  Watch your timing on the second harvest. If it is too close to the first frost, it may kill your plants, because they won't recover enough energy to make it through the winter. 
The fresh flowers are also delicious in salads or garnish alongside meats and vegetables. 

HTH

Barb Birkinbine
Oak Camp Herb Farm
Lodi, WI


  • Re: [Market-farming] A couple of questions for more experienced farmers, OakCamp2, 05/22/2003

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