Herbs in Canning Jars: A Guide to Growing and Preserving Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are a wonderful addition to any dish, adding flavor and nutrition that cannot be replicated by dried herbs. However, buying fresh herbs from the grocery store can be expensive and wasteful - how often do you use up a whole bunch of cilantro before it goes bad? Growing your own herbs is not only cost-effective, but also allows you to control the quality and freshness of your ingredients. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of growing herbs in canning jars and learn how to properly preserve them for long-term use.

The Benefits of Growing Herbs in Canning Jars

Using canning jars as planters is an eco-friendly way to grow herbs indoors, as they are reusable and allow you to bypass traditional plastic planters. Additionally, canning jars are easy to find at thrift stores or garage sales, making them an affordable option for those on a budget. The clear glass also allows you to monitor the growth of your herbs and doubles as storage for when you harvest and preserve them.

Choosing the Right Herbs

Before you begin planting, it's important to choose which herbs will thrive in a canning jar environment. Herbs like basil, parsley, oregano, thyme, and mint are great choices because they don't require much space and are relatively low-maintenance. It's also important to consider which herbs you use most frequently in your cooking and prioritize those.

Planting and Caring for Your Herbs

When planting your herbs in canning jars, make sure to fill the jar with well-draining soil and leave enough space for the roots to grow. Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. You can also add fertilizer to the soil to encourage healthy growth.

Preserving Your Herbs

Once your herbs have grown and are ready to be harvested, there are several methods for preserving them for long-term use. One way is to dry them by hanging them upside down in a cool, dry place. Another method is to freeze them in ice cube trays with water or oil. However, one of the most popular and aesthetically pleasing ways to preserve herbs is by storing them in canning jars. To do this, simply remove the leaves from the stem, wash and dry them, and pack them tightly into a clean canning jar. Cover the herbs with olive oil or vinegar, close the lid tightly, and store in a cool, dark place.

A jar filled with fresh basil leaves.

Using Your Preserved Herbs

There are countless ways to incorporate your preserved herbs into your cooking. Use them to flavor soups, stews, marinades, and dressings, or add them to meat dishes for a burst of fresh flavor. They can also be used as a garnish to elevate the presentation of your food.

A jar filled with fresh parsley leaves.

The Bottom Line

Growing and preserving your own herbs in canning jars is a fun, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. With just a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy fresh herbs year-round without breaking the bank.

Basil, Oregano, Thyme, Mint, Parsley, Cilantro