How to Harvest Drying Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant herb that has many uses. Not only is it popular for its scent but lavender’s small purple flowers are also a beautiful ornamental addition for the garden. Fresh-cut lavender can be used for its essential oils, in sachets and soaps, in floral arrangements and nose bouquets as well as for cooking.

Things You'll Need

• Lavender
• Shears
• Screen
• String
• Sachet pouches
• Small containers for storing

Instructions

1. Lavender has approximately five weeks of blooming time. Harvest lavender at the end of June and early July.

2. Cut lavender stems with a pair of shears in the morning to capture its most fragrant hour when the essential oils are at their peak.

3. Use the lavender in fresh fragrant floral arrangements around the house.

4. To dry lavender, gather the lavender stems in bunches and tie together with a piece of string. Hang lavender upside down in a cool, dry, dark place.

5. Remove dried flower buds and use them for sachet pouches, mixed in oil, or in potpourri. Combine dried lavender with other dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, marjoram, basil and bay leaf for a version of Herbes de Provence for cooking.