As the leaves are falling and the beautiful colors of gold, red, marroon and browns fill your yard, your home herb garden is call you. The weather is not too hot and not too cold, which is a perfect time to manicure your home herb garden.
It is time to capture your herb seeds for replanting. Capture the seeds by placing a paper bag over the flowers. Hold the bag tight and cut the stem. If you rub the bag together, the seeds will be freed. Now you can put them in containers for storing until planting. I put them in envelopes with labels and the envelopes go into a shoe box.
If you want to dry your herbs on the stems, then tie a few of them together and hang in a dry place. The location should also be dark as sun light dries the oils and reduces the essence. When they are dry you can remove the leaves , storing them for your culinary needs. If the sprig is looking good, you can put in a jar and cover with oil or vinegar. The flavored vinegar is great for adding to your meal. Saving jars for this purpose is fun. Once I have the jars filled and rested for two weeks, I add a bow and give as gifts. So many people enjoy adding a touch of garlic oil to your vegetables.
The other drying method is to cut the herbs, strip the leaves laying the leaves on paper or a screen to dry.When the leaves are dry, put them in your marked containers. Autumn is also time to cut the woody stems so your herb will go to a dorminate state for the winter. Many of your herbs will thrive better is brought in side for the winter.
You have cleaned up your herb garden with the cutting and drying, but, you are not finished. What few could I possibly mean? Planting. Garlic, chives, french tarragon and thyme are great autumn plants. If you have a warm or hot climate then add dill and parsley to your autumn planting. And you can add shallots and saffron for your herb garden.
Autumn is a wonderful time of the year to be out in your home herb garden clipping, thinning and planting. The Fall weather is a perfect time to be in your herb garden plants. Plus, you have all your dry herbs for cooking that special dinner.
