How to Dry Fresh Dill

One way to maximize the use of your fresh herbs is to dry and store them for future use. Dill is a versatile herb that is easy to grow and dry. Dried dill leaves can be used in dips, soups and fish, while dried dill seeds can be used for making pickles. By following this simple drying processes, you will have plenty of dill to enjoy all year long.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• String
• An area with good air circulation
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels
• Airtight container

1. Harvest your dill by cutting at the stem with pruning shears. Time your collection based on what you plan to dry. If drying the leaves, harvest before the plant begins to flower and if harvesting the seeds gather after the flowers have reached full bloom.

2. Gather the stems without flowers into a bunch and tie with the string to dry your dill leaves naturally. Hang the stems upside down in an area that has good air circulation. The dill leaves are ready when they crumble easily.

3. Spread the dill without flowers onto a baking sheet in a single layer to dry the leaves using the oven. Keep the oven temperature very low, about 110 degrees F, and bake for six to eight hours.

4. Use a paper towel and spread the dill without flowers in a single layer to dry leaves by microwaving. Microwave the dill on high for about 3 minutes.

5. Remove the dried dill leaves from the stems. Crush the leaves and store in an airtight container away from light.

6. Gather the dill stems with flowers and tie with the string to dry dill seeds. Hang the dill upside down in an area with good air circulation. Place a paper towel under the hanging dill to collect the seeds as they dry and fall.

7. Place the dried in seeds in an airtight container and store them away from light.

Tips & Warnings

• An airtight container is a necessity for keeping your dried herbs fresh.

• Be sure your dill leaves and seeds are completely dried before storing. Any remaining moisture may cause the herb to mold in your storage container.

Resources

• GardenGuides.com--Dill
• Herb Gardening--Dill