Drying your own herbs is a great way to spice up your dishes, make nice presents and save money. The fragrant oils are at their peak around mid-morning so this is a great time to harvest. If you need to wash them then give a light spray with the hose first thing in the morning and pick them when they are dry.
![flowers 1](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/flowers-1.jpg?resize=300%2C246)
I like to pick them with long stems so they are easy to tie together. Once they are picked then tie them with twine or wire in a small bunch.
![Bunched and ready to hang to dry.](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DSC_3990.jpg?resize=200%2C300)
They will keep their flavor best if dried in a cool, light free area. I tie a rope across the rafters in the basement and hang my bunches from there.
![Sage](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/011.jpg?resize=225%2C300)
Check them frequently and take them down when the leaves are dry enough to crumble in your hand.
![Ready to store.](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DSC_3992.jpg?resize=300%2C240)
Too dry and they will lose flavor, too wet and they might mold.
![Calendula flowers](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/July-8th-026.jpg?resize=300%2C225)
Tomorrow I will talk about different blends you can make with your lovely home dried herbs.
When should herbs be picked for drying?
Early morning is best!