General Tips for Picking Herbs

Herbs are a great addition to any garden or kitchen. They add flavor to dishes, make great teas and can even provide medicinal benefits. However, picking herbs can be tricky if you’re not sure what you’re doing. In this article, we’ll provide some general tips for picking herbs that will help you get the most out of your plants.

1. Know when to pick

The best time to pick herbs is in the morning after the dew has dried but before it gets too hot outside. This is when the oils that give herbs their flavor are at their highest concentration. If you pick herbs later in the day, the oils will have dissipated and the flavor won’t be as strong.

It’s also important to know when to pick herbs based on their growth stage. Most herbs are ready to be picked when they have reached maturity but before they start to flower. Once the plant begins to flower, the energy goes into creating blooms rather than producing leaves, which affects the flavor of the herb.

2. Use sharp scissors or shears

When picking herbs, it’s important to use sharp scissors or shears. Dull tools can damage the plant, making it more susceptible to disease or pests. It’s also important to sterilize your tools before using them to prevent the spread of any diseases between plants.

3. Cut above the node

When cutting herbs, always cut above a node where a new leaf or branch grows from the stem. This helps encourage the plant to continue producing leaves and prevents it from becoming woody. It’s also important to leave enough foliage on the plant so that it can continue to photosynthesize and grow.

4. Don't over-harvest

While it may be tempting to harvest all of your herbs at once, it’s important to only take what you need. Over-harvesting can weaken the plant and reduce its overall yield. Instead, take a few leaves here and there, leaving enough on the plant to allow it to continue growing and producing.

5. Rinse before using

Before using your freshly picked herbs, be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can either rinse them under running water or soak them in a bowl of water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

Rosemary in garden

6. Store properly

To keep your herbs fresh for as long as possible, store them properly. Some herbs, like basil and cilantro, can be stored in a jar of water on the counter. Others, like thyme and rosemary, do better in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel. Whatever method you choose, be sure to change the water or paper towel regularly to prevent molding or wilting.

Mint leaves

7. Harvest before winter

If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s important to harvest your herbs before the first frost. This will ensure that you get the most out of your plants and prevent them from dying back too much during the cold months.

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