Never Use an Oven or Dehydrator to Dry Herbs Again With This Century Old Method

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  • Опубліковано 15 гру 2017
  • For centuries people have been hang drying herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and mint as well as many other herbs. It preserves the freshness, quality, and shelf life while only taking seconds to prepare. We will show you how to hang dry herbs today and you won't ever use an oven or dehydrator again.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,5 тис.

  • @ronin6158
    @ronin6158 3 роки тому +1119

    spoiler: he ties string around them and hangs em up.

    • @supersoundninja
      @supersoundninja 3 роки тому +46

      I'm a minute in so we will see

    • @dawnadriennetaylor970
      @dawnadriennetaylor970 3 роки тому +28

      @1996freddie Temperature doesn't matter. They'll dry out eventually. You just put them loosely in a brown paper bag to keep insects off. Juliette de Bairacli Levy hung her bags of herbs in paper like that from the ceiling to keep rodents from eating them when she lived a gypsy life healing whole herds of goats naturally and even worked in Harley Street. There's a lovely photograph of her daughter with an owl on her shoulder. They lived close to Nature so understood it. He's right in that it has been done for thousands of years this way.

    • @TheRealJamesRussell
      @TheRealJamesRussell 3 роки тому +72

      Thank goodness for this kind man, those few words "Tie string around" and "hang up" will save 8 minute of my life, and whomever else reads this, let's get this to top comment, if ten people see this, Ronin will have saved 80 minutes of collective time, that's more than an hour, bless this soul

    • @lindaboeckman8806
      @lindaboeckman8806 3 роки тому +2

      The Peculiar Cat With A Floating Hat better than the sh on network/most tv right now 🤣

    • @christieheyblom
      @christieheyblom 3 роки тому +4

      Lol

  • @Butterflies4Release
    @Butterflies4Release 6 років тому +917

    I dry my loose herbs in brown paper bags. I put the bags in my closed car. The dry heat in the car dries the herbs beautifully in just a few days.

    • @alexandrashier5216
      @alexandrashier5216 5 років тому +190

      I like this idea, because I'm watching this video wondering about the dust that will accumulate on the herbs being hung lol

    • @indahimaka5170
      @indahimaka5170 5 років тому +45

      Is it safe to dry the herbs in the car? I read somewhere that the air in a closed car is not healthy. But i guess since the herbs are in a paper bag perhaps its ok as its not exposed.

    • @renastein9892
      @renastein9892 5 років тому +130

      Well, aren't you a clever little vegemite. I think I'll try that with my next batch of mint. It'll also make my car smell nice and fresh.

    • @selfhealherbs13ms
      @selfhealherbs13ms 5 років тому +51

      @@renastein9892 or the Herb smell like the car🤣🤣😃

    • @caddmaster100
      @caddmaster100 5 років тому +19

      It also is not healthy in hot areas as cars can get above 100 degrees

  • @sandangels73
    @sandangels73 4 роки тому +421

    "You need herbs obviously, and you just need Thyme" 😆

  • @shalonamaranth
    @shalonamaranth 4 роки тому +25

    Ok. Funny observation from a closed caption user.
    You held up scissors and spoke so fast that it translated as "youre gonna need sedative to cut the string." It made me laugh. Thought it might make someone else laugh too.

  • @lindacole5000
    @lindacole5000 5 років тому +398

    I' m almost 70 and remember going to my grandmothers house and seeing her dinning room table full of cookie sheets full of drying herbs. I cut my herbs wash them and drain them good, then take a pair of scissors and cut the leaves from the stems. I spread the leaves out on the cookie sheets can be layered because everyday I give them a toss them. When dried I put them in glass containers in the cupboard and they are ready to use. I know how brittle they are when hanging and don't care to clean up the mess on the floor as they get bumped. My method took less than a hour to do 7 different kinds last niight and will be dried good in 5 days to a week. Try it this way once, I'm sure you'll like it too or better.

    • @rebeccakingman2408
      @rebeccakingman2408 5 років тому +21

      I've seen them hang them up in brown paper bags so no spillage.

    • @susanwangui7580
      @susanwangui7580 5 років тому +9

      Hey lady,youre so blessed and lived long!! Kip on swity! Luv frm kenya😘🙏

    • @tadmikowsky7520
      @tadmikowsky7520 4 роки тому +24

      Linda's grandmother's method is superior in my opinion. It's simple, no silly stuff taped to the wall, and likely much faster to dry because you're not bunching them together. Thanks for sharing!

    • @cindykq8086
      @cindykq8086 4 роки тому +11

      That's how I do it, too. It's too damp here to dry herbs in bunches.

    • @againstallodds404
      @againstallodds404 4 роки тому

      I agree.

  • @jamesprigioni
    @jamesprigioni 6 років тому +589

    There’s a reason why people have been doing it this way for thousands of years... if it’s not broken don’t fix it. Great video Luke!

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +25

      well it is great for making jerky, fruit leather, or drying vegetables and fruits. Still jobs created but for herbs it is terrible.

    • @simonebourgeois9544
      @simonebourgeois9544 6 років тому +16

      The Gardening Channel With James Prigioni ~ plus the wonderful smells. You have a natural air freshener. I dry my herbs in my bedroom closet especially lavender it helps you sleep

    • @rosemarythyme8595
      @rosemarythyme8595 6 років тому +6

      Simone Bourgeois I Love that idea! 💗

    • @paulk5311
      @paulk5311 5 років тому +11

      ml, i remember as a child back in the 60's a neighbor used to dry apples on top of her shed. it had a flat tin roof and she would slice 'em thin and lay them out in the sun. man those things were delicious.

    • @AndTecks
      @AndTecks 5 років тому +16

      Because there was not electric dehydrators 1000's of years ago.

  • @mayaportland8805
    @mayaportland8805 3 роки тому +32

    Finally someone who points out the value of slowing down life and take time to do things right. Life is to be savored.

  • @laurelhartshorn5462
    @laurelhartshorn5462 3 роки тому +92

    I love this method of drying herbs. One thing to remember is that as they dry, they shrink, and are prone to falling out of the string is bumped. Also, make sure your herbs are bug free before you hang them up! It's a good idea to mention giving them a quick rinse outside when you pick them to make sure you're not bringing any bugs into your house. Thanks for the great video!

    • @sarahdenkins3431
      @sarahdenkins3431 Рік тому +2

      I totally agree with you! my first time drying dill weed, the stems shrank and I had to tighten it up.

    • @carly_is_cool
      @carly_is_cool 11 місяців тому

      Thank you for this! He didn't mention if I should rid the herbs of bugs, so I was hoping someone said something about it

    • @wendytipon6020
      @wendytipon6020 11 місяців тому +4

      Instead of string, i use clothes pins and hang the clothes pin from string, but as the shrink the clothes pin stays tight

    • @zacharysherry2910
      @zacharysherry2910 10 місяців тому +3

      Use a salad spinner to dry them extra afterwards before hanging up

  • @sandrat3253
    @sandrat3253 6 років тому +324

    1:22 "why people are dehydrating herbs with heat dehydrating?" Well, here in Ireland where the average humidity is about 80-95% and the average temperature is about 65F, we use a heat dehydrator because that is the only way to dry herbs. If we were to hang herbs like that, they would go mouldy faaaaar before they even had a chance to dehydrate. Hello from the country where "drying out" is just unheard of. 😘 👍

    • @chancesrgood4216
      @chancesrgood4216 6 років тому +28

      I agree I live in Texas and depending on where you live they may rot before drying out

    • @mio.giardino
      @mio.giardino 6 років тому +10

      Where I once lived the humidity would prevent anything from drying, they would get mouldy. Here we have low humidity but still its not easy to do something that should be easy as mint.

    • @michelejones4282
      @michelejones4282 6 років тому +4

      Fan works or close to your hse heat source

    • @chancesrgood4216
      @chancesrgood4216 6 років тому +13

      this is texas it is never not hot lol

    • @Hippiecat67
      @Hippiecat67 6 років тому +14

      Living close to the Gulf it is always humid here.

  • @RobsAquaponics
    @RobsAquaponics 6 років тому +745

    Great info for dryer climates Luke. 👍
    Unfortunately the humidity in some climates prevents drying some herbs this way. The sage we first hug ended up being a mouldy clump. We can spread them out on racks to help prevent that but that takes up space we don't have. We find the best way to dry them is the dehydrator set on the lowest setting (around 30°C/86°F) for herbs.
    Cheers & have a top one.

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +66

      I can't believe you found a dehydrator that goes that low! Ours goes to 95 degrees and I think that is still too hot in my opinion. It also does help in the fall and winter because our humidity is only around 20-40% at most.

    • @RobsAquaponics
      @RobsAquaponics 6 років тому +29

      MIgardener | Simple Organic Gardening & Sustainable Living
      My bad. Just double checked and it's lowest is 35°C or 95°F. Still, that's about how hot it is out here mulching the trees in the sun today. ☀ 😀
      Cheers mate

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +13

      Do you dehydrate things like ginger?

    • @RobsAquaponics
      @RobsAquaponics 6 років тому +26

      Certainly do. 👍 I run through the process in this clip. ua-cam.com/video/OyRhS62HXIY/v-deo.html
      Have also dried Turmeric in the past but I prefer to use it fresh from the garden now.

    • @ingerlebech1
      @ingerlebech1 6 років тому +16

      Stöckli dehydrator goes as low as 20 degrees :-)

  • @mrdavidw123
    @mrdavidw123 5 років тому +157

    I love this method. However, I dry mine in mesh produce bags (The kind you see in the produce area of the supermarket). I wash the herbs and place them in bags and hang on the wall until dry. It also keeps the bugs and dust off.

    • @robbischolfield6346
      @robbischolfield6346 4 роки тому +3

      That’s what I was thinking of doing 😎

    • @denisegirmer4550
      @denisegirmer4550 3 роки тому +1

      Ty going to try!

    • @dawn7612
      @dawn7612 3 роки тому +4

      Hello, Sounds like a great way to dry herbs in mesh produce bags. I actually save a few just in case I need some. Would Basil dry this way?

    • @mrdavidw123
      @mrdavidw123 3 роки тому +7

      @@dawn7612 basil dries great in mesh bags. I shake the bag every day to keep the leaves separated.

    • @lindas.martin2806
      @lindas.martin2806 3 роки тому

      mrdavidw123 really like this idea, will try it out, thanks!

  • @carlkessler303
    @carlkessler303 6 років тому +63

    I've done it both ways. I have a few issues with air drying. Some herbs, like basil, tend to oxidize whereas using a dehydrater helps them to retain their color better. There are leaves like black tea you want to oxidize because it improves the flavor. So that can be good or bad depending on what you want. Another issue is that when hung upside down the moisture drains from the stems into the leave ends and the leaf ends drive very slowly which can then lead to molding or even poor flavors. That was my experience with dill. I'm ok with air drying dill, but I would recommend you do it right side up so that the moisture drains to the stem.

    • @angietsiganova9143
      @angietsiganova9143 Рік тому +4

      Genius

    • @angietsiganova9143
      @angietsiganova9143 Рік тому

      @@Letsgetbusy293 What is “scabbed over?”

    • @anaya4472
      @anaya4472 11 місяців тому +1

      Foolish advice.
      How could anyone hang a herb bunch from the leaf side?

    • @lapanthanim
      @lapanthanim 10 місяців тому

      @@anaya4472 Maybe wrap it around a few more times and tape from the bottom instead of the top?

    • @missjuhee
      @missjuhee 9 місяців тому

      Excellent info. Thanks for sharing.

  • @AcornHillHomestead
    @AcornHillHomestead 5 років тому +151

    Our basil dried fantastic this year using this method. We had so much amazing smelling basil that we could not use fresh.

    • @BlessedBaubles
      @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому +3

      Where do you live?
      Is it because you don’t have much humidity? If so, ppl can consider a dehumidifier.
      Did you wash them first? My basil turned black :( I grew some tiny basil too and it isn’t drying very nicely. Any advice? Thanks.

    • @carloscortes6669
      @carloscortes6669 3 роки тому

      Oh my. I too need to dry basil

    • @leynaabbey
      @leynaabbey 3 роки тому

      Same! Zone 5a here. I run dehumidifiers, and the ac to keep our humidity down.

    • @PatientFarmer
      @PatientFarmer 3 роки тому +3

      Same. Zone 6a Ohio & the basil is so much better then store bought dried basil.

    • @lindas.martin2806
      @lindas.martin2806 3 роки тому +9

      Janette Lavender I made basil and olive oil ice cubes. Put the basil and olive oil in your blender, then in the ice cube tray and when frozen transfer to a plastic freezer bad. I keep the cubes for soups and pesto.

  • @anachronisticon
    @anachronisticon 5 років тому +52

    Concerning all the comments about this being impractical in humid climates, please note that it is air flow, not heat per se, that dries the herbs most effectively. I live in soggy old England, literally overlooking the sea, it's pretty damp here too. This method does work, but you might want a draftier house than modern airtight ones typically are, or place it somewhere with moving air, like above a radiator or stove during the cooler seasons or near an open window or fan during warmer days. NB: try to keep herbs out of direct sun also, as this too leads to deterioration of their quality.

    • @BlessedBaubles
      @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому +1

      I live in Mass too and it can get humid! I run a dehumidifier all the time for reasons I’d rather not say here. So I think I’ll be fine drying by hanging.

    • @JamieBainbridge
      @JamieBainbridge 4 роки тому +4

      Just like clothes on the washing line - Airflow to dry, sunshine to sterilise. Americans don't know about that, 90% of them seem to only know the clothes dryer.

    • @mexico53ify
      @mexico53ify 4 роки тому +1

      So I could put them in the oven and just run the fan?...no heat? I shall try that!!

    • @Terophy
      @Terophy 2 роки тому +1

      Oh a comment from the UK finally. I live in Bristol, where should I hang my herbs (celery leaves), if I don't use the heater that much

    • @anachronisticon
      @anachronisticon 2 роки тому +2

      @@Terophy The airing cupboard perhaps?

  • @quietone748
    @quietone748 6 років тому +28

    I dried Rosemary and Sage from my garden this summer and when I add my own to dishes and compare it to the stuff I get in the store, there is such a HUGE difference in flavor. I have vowed to never buy dried Mediterranean herbs ever again.

  • @dovelady3am815
    @dovelady3am815 3 роки тому +24

    I did this last year in paper bags upside down in my walk in closet. I wasn't upside down, just the herbs... I am still using my sage. We used all the mint as tea... it was amazing!
    Thanx for the tip!

  • @jacquelinechee4794
    @jacquelinechee4794 6 років тому +44

    I discovered this dehydrating method by accident. I live in Houston. On one of the hot summer afternoon, I left a big bunch of basil and thyme in my car by accident. I ended up giving dry herbs instead of fresh herbs to my friend.

  • @wifeofagrumpyoldmarine428
    @wifeofagrumpyoldmarine428 4 роки тому +20

    I’ve always dried my herbs like this because my grandmother did😃 Edit: I’ve even dried mint successfully. I make a slip knot to put around my bunch of herbs.

    • @Sandra-ww6oz
      @Sandra-ww6oz Рік тому +2

      Yes agree! I hang my mint and it's dry and retains it colour in about two weeks Happy Thanksgiving from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺❤️🇺🇸

  • @grandmothermoon2490
    @grandmothermoon2490 2 роки тому +3

    I've been drying my herbs, flowers, etc..., for decades like this, and after they're dry, before they get any dust, its time to put them in Mason jars, or food saver bags.
    I have dried basil, Thai basil, cilantro, parsley, like this, no problem, always retains its flavor, and potency.
    Plus it adds a little bit of natural decor, while its drying.😉

  • @theorganicgardengnome7210
    @theorganicgardengnome7210 6 років тому +34

    And they make your house smell so good while they dry.

  • @simonebourgeois9544
    @simonebourgeois9544 6 років тому +113

    I air dry my Lavender & omg the aromatics that comes from the drying lavender. I got a 4oz harvest this summer/fall & I'm going to make Lavender Scones for Christmas morning 😋😋😋

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +11

      oh my those sound divine.

    • @simonebourgeois9544
      @simonebourgeois9544 6 років тому +4

      MIgardener | Simple Organic Gardening & Sustainable Living ~ if they taste yummy I'll give you & Mrs. MIgardener the recipe. 🙂

    • @DebbieTomkoSUNSHINE
      @DebbieTomkoSUNSHINE 4 роки тому +1

      Simone Bourgeois give us the recipe...:-)

    • @bettebyrd
      @bettebyrd 4 роки тому +2

      Simone Bourgeois I want it too? 😳🥰

    • @joycerandazzo2578
      @joycerandazzo2578 3 роки тому

      @@bettebyrd y dry fry

  • @jaclynrichmond1049
    @jaclynrichmond1049 5 років тому +7

    I love the look of my herbs hanging from my dinning room wall!

  • @mindybarks1161
    @mindybarks1161 5 років тому +10

    Plus!!! Your house smells amazing when you're hang drying herbs 😊

  • @jessicarawlison3865
    @jessicarawlison3865 2 роки тому +3

    This is my second year gardening. Ive recently wondered about preserving herbs and making tea. Thank you for all the content you've provided via UA-cam.

  • @josephku4184
    @josephku4184 6 років тому +21

    Great tip on drying herbs! I am looking forward to using this next year. Also, you should start a series on the history of gardening. Perhaps videos on ancient gardening methods or plant biographies that explain things like carrots once being purple or why bananas seem to have no seeds. Keep up the great work!

  • @theresecornelius812
    @theresecornelius812 6 років тому +62

    I used to do this in the 90’s as that was the style on the walls. It worked great. Just don’t leave them up there for months and then use them (because of the dust😬)!

    • @Cal-cf2vo
      @Cal-cf2vo 5 років тому +5

      I wondered if they would get dusty - thanks for confirming.

    • @sgibau
      @sgibau 3 роки тому +8

      That's why I hang my herbs inside of white mosquito netting. It keeps the dust off and allows me to see the dust that's actually trying to accumulate on my herbs.

  • @dillonzolkavich7619
    @dillonzolkavich7619 4 роки тому +1

    That's what I've been doing this year as well! Love how it looks in the house.

  • @createinme
    @createinme 6 років тому +7

    I love your channel ❤️. I watch a lot of gardening channels but you by far give me the back yard gardener the best advise. My tomatoes are awesome this year due to you. You saved me from dehydrating herbs that I’m going to harvest tomorrow. My pantry will be a great place to hang them even though I live in the south. Thank you again for all of your great advise. You’re my go to channel!

  • @RaechelleJ
    @RaechelleJ 6 років тому +23

    I usually dry them this way but never knew about the oils. Thanks.

  • @susannerauch8237
    @susannerauch8237 5 років тому +4

    Thank you; this is the first season I have been able to successfully grow lavender, and I SO want to dry and persevere it!

  • @sonyaluhman4648
    @sonyaluhman4648 8 місяців тому

    1:22 ikr. . .the dehydration methods is logical, the oils are extracted and left with leaves 🍃
    I am so glad I ran into your channel, I remember my Dad using this method

  • @TheNakidGardeners
    @TheNakidGardeners 5 років тому +2

    Great idea! This just inspired us. I love that this is functional and decorative.

  • @robmaxwell189
    @robmaxwell189 5 років тому +105

    I opened up my dehyadrator and just disconnected the heating element. Now it's just a a blower with a cover.

    • @mexico53ify
      @mexico53ify 4 роки тому +1

      Very good!! I shall think about that one!!

    • @randymeyer8624
      @randymeyer8624 3 роки тому

      Great idea. Did you install a switch for turning the heating element on and off?

    • @pwr2god
      @pwr2god 2 роки тому

      😂😂😂😂

    • @yvonnesflorida643
      @yvonnesflorida643 2 роки тому

      Smart!

  • @rebeccaisaacson7479
    @rebeccaisaacson7479 2 роки тому +43

    I have done both. I prefer my dehydrator for speed, consistency, and saving space. I disagree about the hung herbs being more flavorful, I couldn't tell the difference. Both methods taste better than purchased dried herbs. I also find hung herbs collect dust. I do like the look of the bunches. Very cute.

    • @nordiskaorter
      @nordiskaorter Рік тому +1

      I agree. Some herbs are good to hang and some must go into the deshydrator. For example, elder flowers must be dry quickly and at low temperature, if hanged they oxidase. Deshydrate with machine and around 25/30 degrees can give better quality than hanging herbs.

  • @karenhobbs3218
    @karenhobbs3218 2 роки тому

    good for newbies. i had a condo with entrance stairs going up from the front door. A half wall at the top separated the stairs from the hallway to bedrooms. Lots of light but no direct sun and a window that could be opened in warm weather to bring in a breeze.. I suspended a wooden broom pole from the ceiling over the half wall and that is where I hung my herbs to dry. People who visited loved it! BTW, since we are in modern times, and generally people have a refrigerator: the best way to dry parsley is throw whole springs in a paper bag and leave on a shelf in your refrigerator. Seriously. the parsley dries to brittle, stays a beautiful green and is more aromatic than fresh!

  • @D.A.Hanks14
    @D.A.Hanks14 2 роки тому +1

    Good stuff, Luke; thanks! I always harvest the rosemary off the plant for the fresh, piney flavor, but I want to dry my winter savory, and this will be perfect! I'll tie it up and put it out in the (windowless) garage.

  • @moxyangel
    @moxyangel 6 років тому +6

    I dry flowers upside down all the time, it's so effective for preservation. I figured i should do sage/mint this way but had to check. Thanks

  • @faithloveandhope65
    @faithloveandhope65 5 років тому +8

    Thank you for this video I just clipped my rosemary and thyme plant getting ready for winter. Great tip Love your channel.

  • @riobird1363
    @riobird1363 Рік тому

    That’s the problem with us nowadays, we are so used to getting things quickly and we have forgotten how to be patient. We change quality for time. But thank you for teaching is these old ways that some of us never got to learn while growing up.

  • @sam2753
    @sam2753 11 місяців тому

    An added benefit is whatever room has the drying herbs will smell FANTASTIC!

  • @amandabarnes8303
    @amandabarnes8303 6 років тому +51

    I get spearmint growing wild in my yard every year. I discovered it when I was pulling weeds. I pulled one out of the ground and that wonderful smell hit my nostrils. So every September, we pull some and dry it exactly like this. Dried spearmint is great in some plain water. I also make tea from it when someone has a stomach ache.

    • @stevengonzalez27
      @stevengonzalez27 4 роки тому

      Amanda Barnes
      .... or simply just enjoy it with honey. Makes great iced tea too, without the caffeine. Maybe add some lemon drops, if you like it.

    • @Metqa
      @Metqa 4 роки тому

      I hang some tied springs on my front door so every time it is opened I get a whiff of mint. Plus it looks all rustic like, LOL

    • @gwengottlieb8501
      @gwengottlieb8501 4 роки тому

      Great idea! I have some growing in an old garden bed. Tea sounds perfect!

    • @barbarajones3948
      @barbarajones3948 3 роки тому

      I have made spearmint, lemon and cucumber sorbet, delicious!

  • @madddY113938
    @madddY113938 6 років тому +3

    My favorite gardening on UA-cam!❤️🙏🏼

  • @stevenkolden
    @stevenkolden 14 днів тому

    Thanks so much! You're videos have improved my life. Very grateful!

  • @Goldmine810
    @Goldmine810 5 років тому +4

    Mega Awesome, I did Sage and Thyme like this Instinctually about 2 weeks ago! Thanks for the Vid! SHOUTS FROM FLINT MI!

  • @paulacannon3452
    @paulacannon3452 5 років тому +4

    My mum always did this our house used to smell so good 😊

  • @aqua9299
    @aqua9299 6 років тому +8

    Your herbs drying method is so much simple and makes more sense than using oven or dehydrator like some others do.

    • @michaelk4546
      @michaelk4546 2 роки тому

      I was just about to buy a hydrator but glad I saw this video. I got herbs on hydroponic using a solar pump and rain tank. Now it’s simply free for me

  • @shean7890
    @shean7890 6 років тому +1

    Just fantastic teaching , truly grateful, and watching the video is pleasant to mind and soul

  • @littlevalleyhomestead
    @littlevalleyhomestead 3 роки тому

    Love your videos! I've learned so much, you made keeping it organic so much easier thankyou !

  • @leonawebb24
    @leonawebb24 5 років тому +3

    So simple and you could do it anywhere! Good stuff

  • @BlessedBaubles
    @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому +68

    Too funny!! The ad on the video is for a DEHYDRATOR!! Just what Luke says NOT to use.

  • @EccentricNature
    @EccentricNature 5 років тому +1

    This is pretty much what I usually do too. Great point about the water rich herbs.

  • @resourcefulgirl
    @resourcefulgirl 4 роки тому

    Great tip!! I'm growing lots of great stuff this year including herbs. I have the perfect spot to let them dry naturally.

  • @MrMcGillicuddy
    @MrMcGillicuddy 4 роки тому +88

    Good video man. I love high oil content herbs like those you've shown. They preserve themselves it's beautiful. I have some rosemary, sage and thyme that's 3 years old and smells more potent than when I first dried it.
    I thought I'd mention something about the low oil content herbs like basil and parsley. The flavor in the leaves vanish if you dehydrate them but I found out that you can wait till the buds almost open up into flower and then harvest them. Same way you'd harvest lavender just before flowers open and hang them to dry. I have jars of basil, parsley and oregano flowers dried down. They are so fragrant and the oil content is much higher allowing them to last for years. Parsley seed crushed also tastes and smells like fresh so that's another alternative to preserve fresh parsley flavor. It's a lot more potent but you just get used to how much to use such as a teaspoon of crushed seed into a soup in place of a large handful of minced fresh leaves. You can apply this concept to any low oil content herbs that don't retain their flavor when dried. I was so excited when I found this out. Just thought I'd share this

    • @koloneitaiongi1242
      @koloneitaiongi1242 3 роки тому +4

      Thank you for those wonderful tips! Now I know I can preserve my basils and parsley also without losing its flavor.

    • @MrMcGillicuddy
      @MrMcGillicuddy 3 роки тому +3

      @@koloneitaiongi1242 your welcome. I share this around. I'm amazed how few people do this so have to share the wealth of knowledge out there. So much better flavor, and safer, than store bought spices

    • @cafarmgirl3279
      @cafarmgirl3279 3 роки тому

      Great advice, thank you!!

    • @Auset003
      @Auset003 2 роки тому +1

      This is awesome

    • @theasianwitch
      @theasianwitch 2 роки тому +1

      thanks for sharing, that's useful information!

  • @ladyashleytheironunderneat5363
    @ladyashleytheironunderneat5363 5 років тому +4

    Yes! I rarely wish for a way to give 100 thumbs up to a video! You're a joy to watch & a wonderful gardener. I can't say enough about. how thrilled I am to see someone bringing back the "elder" ways. I call them that, bc as you mentioned they've been used for centuries. I'm a Master Herbalist so I look for things like this- (my apothecary/herb room walls look just like this!) People in this age aren't keen on learning alchemy. Not everyone could do it, but thr basics should still be used. Chemists, maybe? But, they'd never call it alchemy. It's been associated w/ witchcraft, and the occult, (which only means hidden knowledge) but has taken on such negative connotations in our society, it's a shame. It's how we learn to utilize that which grows right outside many of our doors, we just aren't aware! As you were saying, the distillation process is quite important. It's 1 of 7 (or 12) steps. Otherwise we lose those nutrients, minerals, antioxidants, etc. that are essential for our health. Drying herbs should be done in exactly as you described, esp.. using untreated twine. If they're not dried this way we lose the healing benefit of fresh herbs again. Btw, I'm sure you have a fab video on this already, but, I dry my basil on a screen, in a dark, dry room. That way it can air dry, this oven thing you described freaked me out! No wonder dried, store- bought basil tastes so weak & different! Some plants, I cut the main stem before it can flower, so it becomes lush. Then, I have a few plants that I allow to flower. Then, I pinch the flower off & let them dry on the same type of screen w/ something to catch the seeds under it. I use the flowers for medicinal purposes.
    So many thanks! I know these vids are a great deal of work. So, I subbed! Happy to have found your channel, I'll be sharing your videos often! Best to you

  • @barurose7319
    @barurose7319 4 роки тому

    I just found this channel today and I love it. VERY HELPFUL!

  • @karenben-mohamed9275
    @karenben-mohamed9275 5 років тому +1

    I am so glad to find this video. Best instructions for a beginner like me. I will definitely dry herbs this way.

  • @nancycoy9510
    @nancycoy9510 6 років тому +36

    I do not get why you got thumbs down your presentation was so informative. I do a lot of dehydrating and would prefer your method for my herbs. I am disabled have a very fixed income and save a lot of money dehydrating, canning and freezing food. I loved this video! Your channel is the best I have learned a lot from you and your wife. I bought some seeds from you last month and thought I got a lot for my money can't wait to plant them!

  • @joeluquette6417
    @joeluquette6417 6 років тому +4

    You can also use floral wire or something like it instead of string (I've used pipe cleaners before, but those have fuzz on them you probably don't want in your food). Super easy though, just wrap it around the bunch twice, make a hook on the top end, and hang it. Takes like 3 seconds

  • @stephaniesass5173
    @stephaniesass5173 Рік тому

    As always Luke, a natural, inexpensive and very cool way to be more efficient. Thanks

  • @angg2957
    @angg2957 2 роки тому

    I am so glad that I came across this video! I have been dehydrating my herbs but then started using your method and you are right I will never use an oven or dehydrator again to dry herbs. Thanks again!

  • @beautyforashes2230
    @beautyforashes2230 6 років тому +7

    Great vid! I have to use a dehydrator, though. My house is nearly 200 years old and built of stone, so the humidity levels even in winter are very high. I've tried drying herbs this way, but they end up just not drying.

  • @shericreates
    @shericreates 6 років тому +8

    I also hang mine. I take a stick and tie a rope to both ends and a nail in the wall or the hook y the fireplace, although I rarely use the fireplace this time of year. Then I hang the herb bunches from the stick. How do you store after drying? I use tall mason jars trying not to do much with the herbs until cooking time. Otherwise you could release some of their essential oils. So I have heard. Works for me!

  • @kellilacy7583
    @kellilacy7583 2 роки тому +1

    This is the way my family has been drying herbs for centuries as well. I hang mine in my large pantry & onto the wire racks. Love your herb wall!!

  • @everythingsunflowersandmor2631
    @everythingsunflowersandmor2631 6 років тому +1

    So glad you did this video !! My favorite way to dry my herb!!!

  • @PinkChucky15
    @PinkChucky15 6 років тому +28

    This method is awesome, it’s how my grandparents used to do it :-)

  • @KaikanoSei
    @KaikanoSei 6 років тому +3

    This is how I dry my herbs all the time. Unless they are a "wet" type plant (Onions, ect. Which I never do) I hang dry. it is soooooo much better than ovens or dehydrators!

  • @zinnialady5153
    @zinnialady5153 4 роки тому

    I lay my peppers and green beans on window screens on enclosed porch and this has worked well for me. Have hung herbs in brown paper sacks.

  • @pjarma8536
    @pjarma8536 2 роки тому +1

    So just leave them gathering dust for weeks and then just squeeze over your favourite dishes,lovely.

  • @MoFilmsHD
    @MoFilmsHD 6 років тому +26

    When will you show us how to make mint and chamomile tea I remember the chamomile video

  • @insaneorange8159
    @insaneorange8159 6 років тому +34

    I wrap them loosely in cheesecloth and put in the door of the fridge. Dries perfect. I dry basil this way too and it comes out pretty strong tasting.

    • @imannaomi6646
      @imannaomi6646 5 років тому +1

      How long does it take to dry completely?

    • @tevaanik
      @tevaanik 5 років тому

      Does it get refrigerator smell?

    • @BlessedBaubles
      @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому +1

      I’d love to know how long it takes and do you then just leave them in the fridge?
      And How is everyone keeping the herbs after drying them?

    • @BlessedBaubles
      @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому +1

      When my basil gets cold it turns black. How do you do this? Oh I hope they answer! Season is ending fast!

  • @kRis-rn6so
    @kRis-rn6so 4 роки тому

    This is great! I have done what you suggested, although people suggested other ideas. I hang them in my bedroom so it has an herbal scent. I have poked sewing pins into the drywall and hang several bunches at different lengths.

  • @tinamaddigan2122
    @tinamaddigan2122 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the info. I'm in the process of trying savoury for the first time.

  • @thymetosow4972
    @thymetosow4972 5 років тому +2

    Great info, Luke! I have switched to air drying my herbs and it works great even in my humid weather. Of course, there are a few that do not work well with this method as you mentioned. I find that the essential oils and aroma is much stronger than when I was drying them in my oven or dehydrator.

    • @karlacaban9428
      @karlacaban9428 3 роки тому

      Can you dry in the sun, hanging from clothes hanger? I have parsley, sage, thyme and oregano

    • @thymetosow4972
      @thymetosow4972 3 роки тому

      @@karlacaban9428 Yes, you can. I have done that before. They will dry quickly in full sun, so check the herbs often and don't allow them to be rained on.

  • @glendastarkey2805
    @glendastarkey2805 5 років тому +5

    Your video popped up just before i was going to dry my sage in the oven...first time
    Im going to do this instead..
    Thank you...!

    • @BlessedBaubles
      @BlessedBaubles 4 роки тому

      Happens ALL the time!! That’s because our devices hear everything we say and Google uses it to steer us to videos or “suggested” ads. I thought it was just too many coincidences but try it on any subject! You’ll get emails and see videos within hours. Crazy, ha?

  • @doeharris5363
    @doeharris5363 4 роки тому +2

    I really enjoyed this video, love to dry herbs and l found your method easy and very pretty. Thank you. 😊🐱🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

  • @AnaSilva95
    @AnaSilva95 4 роки тому +1

    We've always done that with laurel here in Portugal, so easy!

  • @diannajohnston4558
    @diannajohnston4558 4 роки тому +4

    Ya I’ve dried my herbs for years but tacky hanging way....mine are on a wooden frame that has such a lovely visual appeal!

    • @lindas.martin2806
      @lindas.martin2806 3 роки тому

      Dianna Johnston would really enjoy seeing a pic of your frame, I have wondered hoe to hang herbs from a frame, do you have hooks of the frame? And how you hang it from the ceiling?

  • @camicri4263
    @camicri4263 6 років тому +37

    You can also dry bell peppers, jalapeños, chillies and all the peppers. Than soak them up in water or the hot peppers you can grid. Also you can grid up the peppers for paprika( I will tell you the name) ; really you can not compare the taste.
    The sweet paprika is made out of red bell pepper of different varieties, it can be smoked as well if you want to.

    • @camicri4263
      @camicri4263 6 років тому +3

      Capsicum annuum peppers are for paprika, some are sweet and some spicy.

    • @peepslostsheep
      @peepslostsheep 6 років тому +3

      Capsicum annuum is the scientific name for all peppers. Bell peppers, jalapenos, Serrano, habenero, poblano, birds eye, are all Capsicum annuum. Paprika is usually made from sweet red bell peppers, but sometimes spicy ones too.

    • @lifeinthemudlane1846
      @lifeinthemudlane1846 6 років тому +1

      he is talking about herbs - not peppers or oranges etc. just stick to the subject

    • @peepslostsheep
      @peepslostsheep 6 років тому +24

      People can discuss whatever they want. If you don't like it, feel free to not get involved in it. This is the EXACT same method used to dry peppers for paprika, air drying. At least one other person has mentioned drying peppers this way, and you didn't bother them. Don't know what your deal is, but I'll talk about canning tomatoes here if I so desire.

    • @joyceowens1089
      @joyceowens1089 6 років тому +7

      We had an abundance of sweet red peppers this year so we smoked, dried them and made paprika.You are right the taste is much better than what you get off the shelf.We also smoked and dried our hot peppers and made flakes and powder.We had an awesome growing season this year thanks to Luke's tips.

  • @gsdalpha1358
    @gsdalpha1358 4 роки тому +1

    We have a small 6'x6' area on an enclosed back porch I use for drying herbs. We got a long tension rod, then hung shower curtain rings from it. Tie long lengths of twine onto the rings and attach twined herb bundles to the ends with clothes pins. The shower curtains rings let you slide the herb bundles apart as needed. After the season ends, you can take the rod down or just slide all the hanging ends of twine to the wall. There is a small wall fan we'll set on low just to keep air moving if we're really drying a LOT all at once. So far, it's worked really well!

  • @kathrynknowleshwy101farm4
    @kathrynknowleshwy101farm4 4 роки тому +2

    I dry basil by hanging every year .I also use my dryer trays for parsley in my darkest room just dry them slowly ..in my high humid climate my herbs dry but don't get real crispy but store all year with no problems and my parsley is like fresh . I agree that the use of a dryer is a waste of money when using it for herbs ...the use of a paper bag preserves the color of your herbs ..i tie them then use a clip to put them in a lunch size brown bag then hang and my herbs retain there color ..

    • @followyourheart7818
      @followyourheart7818 4 роки тому

      The paper bag would also prevent the herbs from falling off the stem onto the floor when dried.

  • @moragtohamy6644
    @moragtohamy6644 5 років тому +3

    Hi, does it work well for lemongrass? Thank you. :)

  • @SirCracker
    @SirCracker 6 років тому +6

    Time to do an update on the giant Crimson tomato are you still growing it in the house? How is it doing

  • @dimitristripakis7364
    @dimitristripakis7364 2 роки тому

    This is how it's always been in Greece, nice video, no oven needed.

  • @linav4484
    @linav4484 Рік тому

    I airdry my herbs too, even basil. I always try to use the most organic methods. Thanks for this video, and explanation of the process👍🌿

  • @OurLittleHomestead
    @OurLittleHomestead 6 років тому +33

    I dry on hangers from s curtain rod!

  • @kB5TVP
    @kB5TVP 5 років тому +3

    Oh I needed this tip!!!!!! I have 4 different herbs and a basil tree I want to dry and store!! Thank you!

  • @EMICskenya
    @EMICskenya 3 роки тому

    Lots of love from Kenya, i love gardening and i have a herb garden...this information is amazing. Thanks Luke

  • @stefanmansukhani8797
    @stefanmansukhani8797 Рік тому

    For me in a humid tropical climate, dry like this in a room that has air conditioning for at least nightly and if not ready in 4-5 days finish uncovered in the fridge for a day. Job done.

  • @AnneAndersonFoxiepaws
    @AnneAndersonFoxiepaws 6 років тому +13

    Yup Im thinking that just growing fresh mint and basil along with the coriander and nasturtium that I use a lot is the best. I do dry nasturtium seeds wgich are like capers and have the excellent medicinal. In hand. There's no hardship in keeping fresh herbs both on the porch and in the house. Thanks for reiterating what I have been doing for the last half century (I was taught in the 60's as a child by a very wise woman and I was taught about wild medicinal herbs as I suppose she is what would be called a hedgewitch....a very accomplished lady who also taught me about being able to live without electricity etc....something that looks like proving to be very important these days. I am going to sub because despise being fine with herbs etc my vegetable garden (I can grow lots of kale and rhubarb and we have lots of wild edibles, but I am totally rubbish at what you call zucchini and any gourds and my tomatoes are iffy...I need to get this and a refresher in preservation without refrigeration before I will be totally happy. ..also geowing stuff like lentils as well as wild nuts and beans would be a help. Apart from the raised beds and some polytunnel (it is Scotland and we tend to get awful weather) the rest of my thirty odd acres is in woodland, its being replanted with deciduous indigenous trees and a bee and butteefly meadow mix to encourage both. I will not be using any chemicals but natural predation of pests and strategic planting.

    • @rrosieur
      @rrosieur 5 років тому +1

      Hi, do you have a channel I could follow. Your land and gardens what you have so far sound amazing...and I'd love to hear more about your wise woman teaching you medicinal medicine and learning to live without power ✨

    • @orlandovega9530
      @orlandovega9530 4 роки тому +1

      Foxiepaws ACAnderson be careful where you plant the mint. It’s a weed and can take over the garden. Maybe keep it contained in a large planter

  • @michelejones4282
    @michelejones4282 6 років тому +5

    I probably missed it but do u rinse off first? I hung mine in a guest bedroom closet with door open. It worked perfect! Merry Christmas to you & your beaitiful wife & adorable daughter! Thank you for all your videos & the Trifecta...love it!

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +1

      nope, we don't rinse off the herbs. They would mold.

    • @stevengonzalez27
      @stevengonzalez27 4 роки тому

      Michele Jones
      I would rinse them off, shake gently and then spread on paper towels, placed on cookie sheets. Won't mold in a well ventilated area.

  • @CaitlinBrooksMusic
    @CaitlinBrooksMusic 3 роки тому

    Thanks so much for posting!
    I, too, am going to use this method, even though it takes longer. I need to be more patient.

  • @beckyisaac538
    @beckyisaac538 4 роки тому

    Very nice demonstration, I took this method for granted, but its very informative

  • @kristinr5253
    @kristinr5253 6 років тому +3

    So helpful. Maybe a silly question, but do you rinse the herbs before drying them? Just in water or with a bit of vinegar?

  • @mainiacgardener5628
    @mainiacgardener5628 6 років тому +7

    Hi Luke. Here's a great tip for dehydrating things. Dehydrate in the refrigerator on a sheet of food grade corrugated cardboard. I dehydrate mushrooms, peppers and all sorts of other stuff with this method. It works great. I have never seen anyone else doing this, perhaps no one ever thought of doing it.

    • @jovanbergh33
      @jovanbergh33 6 років тому +5

      Mainiac Gardener There's probably a concern of infusing flavours from whatever is in your refrigerator into what your drying. It's a common issue for anything exposed to open air in a fridge.

    • @mainiacgardener5628
      @mainiacgardener5628 6 років тому +3

      Keep a clean fridge, all food in sealed containers and a box of baking soda and it won't be an issue.

    • @barbarakegebein1800
      @barbarakegebein1800 6 років тому

      Jovan Bergh moo

  • @littleforestowl
    @littleforestowl 4 роки тому

    Thank you so much! I’m trying this (only with Command picture hooks). So excited! Yay 🙌🏽👏🏽👏🏽

  • @caleymccauley6007
    @caleymccauley6007 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much, this was so helpful. Blessings to you brother!

  • @007darryl
    @007darryl 6 років тому +6

    Can't believe someone gave a thumbs down! This was great.👍

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +1

      they were jealous of how good my herbs looked. :)

    • @edieboudreau9637
      @edieboudreau9637 6 років тому +2

      More like they live in high humidity area where it doesn't work well.

  • @Mmbohn1
    @Mmbohn1 6 років тому +78

    I've dried it that way and it became very dusty. Yuck. I've actually had some success by putting the stuff to dry in a brown paper bag and put in car on dash. No dust and very dry. No mold either

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  6 років тому +26

      i think you might need an air filter or something. I have never known a house to be that dusty.

    • @joyceowens1089
      @joyceowens1089 6 років тому +8

      We use brown bags also since Colorado is such a dusty state from the dryness and winds.

    • @bigpun1726
      @bigpun1726 6 років тому +12

      A little dust ain’t ever hurt nobody...lol

    • @voidremoved
      @voidremoved 6 років тому +7

      try a cardboard box with pieces of string through it... an air hole on one side at the top. on the opposite side, a hole near the bottom. so the air will flow thru the box.
      if the dust is so bad you can put a filter over the air hole. if you have an appropriate size of fan, you can put the fan on the top air hole, pulling air out of the box, but not blowing in... or just have a fan nearby, but never pointed right at it.
      if u have a lot of herb u can even make a big wooden one, an old wardrobe or like I did... turn a closet in to a drying room... just a hole up at the top with a fan blows out. cool air come in the bottom. full of strings to hang things on.

    • @AnasKhezam
      @AnasKhezam 5 років тому +4

      MIgardener | Simple Organic Gardening & Sustainable Living well if you live in a sandy climate you will know even the luxury homes get full of dust and sand

  • @AngelAffinity18
    @AngelAffinity18 3 роки тому +1

    Im currently drying basil in the oven for the first time, while I hung up my parsley, covered the area with a dark cloth so it gets less light. Excited to see how it goes. I saw another video about drying basil in the oven, so appearntly its not uncommon.

  • @mayamachine
    @mayamachine 6 років тому

    Good point on over processing the herbs. The least you have to do to preserve foods, is usually the best for nutritional and flavor retention.