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Step 1
Seed heads can be collected when the seed head ripens. Place the entire seed head in a paper bag. After they burst open, your seeds settle in the bottom of the sack. This is the easiest method for gathering seeds from herb seed heads.
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Step 2
Air-dry your herbs on screen racks. Spread small quantities of the herbs on a screen or cookie sheet. Put the herbsin the oven on a low setting for 2 hours. Make sure you leave the oven door open. Gather larger bundles with a rubber band or twine and hang them upside down in an attic, basement, or any other dark, dry location.
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Step 3
Microwave herbs on a layer of paper towels. Place the paper towel in a bowl, then a layer of herbs and then top them with another paper towel. Microwave for 3 minutes and turn the leaves every 30 seconds if the microwave does not have a rotating turntable. Continue every 20 to 30 seconds until they dry. Microwave the herbs on a low-humidity day without rain. Herbs can reabsorb moisture after microwaving. Seal them immediately after they cool and dry.
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Step 4
Store your dried herbs in a brown glass jar that you place in a dark pantry or closet. Light will remove the flavor and diminish the strength of the herbs. Keep air out and the seal tight.
