How Do You Collect & Store Herb Seeds?
When purchased at the store, herbs such as oregano, basil and lavender are expensive and often so old they have lost much of their aroma. However, these culinary favorites are easy to grow in just about any climate and take well to both patio pots and windowsill gardens. By collecting and storing your own herb seeds, you can save money you would spend on annual herb seeds while still enjoying the fresh-from-the-garden taste. Cut the stem a few inches below the plant’s lowest blossom. Wait until the flowers have fully blossomed and begun to drop but the seeds are still firmly attached to the plant. The seeds should be mature (they will resemble seeds from the store) but not dry enough to drop when the stem is moved. Dry the seeds. Place the herb stems in a paper bag. Leave them in a warm, dry area until the seeds fall easily from the stem (usually two to four weeks). Remove and sort the seeds. Cover a table top with newspaper and gently shake the stems to dislodge the herb seeds. You al
