Lavender Harvest
Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant plant that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. Not only does it look and smell amazing, but it also has a variety of uses, from culinary to medicinal.
If you have lavender plants in your garden and want to know how to harvest them properly, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of harvesting lavender plants step by step.
When is the best time to harvest lavender?
The best time to harvest lavender is when the flowers are in full bloom. This is usually in the summer months, typically from June to August, depending on your location. Lavender flowers should be vibrant in color and have just started to open up. Avoid harvesting lavender when it is wet or after a rainfall, as this can affect the quality of the flowers.
How to harvest lavender plants?
1. Start by choosing the right tools: You will need a pair of sharp pruning shears or scissors to harvest lavender. Make sure your tools are clean and sanitized to prevent the spread of diseases.
2. Identify the stems to harvest: Look for stems that have at least three to five flower buds on them. These are the stems that are ready to be harvested. Avoid cutting stems that have already started to wither or turn brown.
3. Cut the stems: Position your pruning shears or scissors just above a set of leaves or buds, and make a clean cut. Avoid cutting too close to the base of the plant, as this can damage the lavender bush.
4. Bundle the stems: Once you have harvested a sufficient number of stems, gather them together and tie them with a string or rubber band. Make sure the bundle is secure and tight.
5. Hang the bundles: Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to hang the lavender bundles. You can use a hook or a hanger to suspend them upside down. This will allow the lavender to dry naturally and retain its fragrance.
How to dry lavender?
1. Remove any excess leaves: After a few days of hanging, the lavender stems will start to dry out. Take this opportunity to remove any excess leaves from the stems. This will make the drying process more efficient.
2. Store the dried lavender: Once the lavender stems are completely dry, gently remove the flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container. Keep the container in a cool, dark place to preserve the fragrance and color of the dried lavender.
Now that you know how to harvest and dry lavender plants, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this versatile herb. Whether you want to use it in cooking, crafting, or aromatherapy, freshly harvested and dried lavender will elevate your experience. Happy harvesting!
