Pineapple sage is becoming increasingly popular as a culinary herb. But the harvest usually exceeds the demand, so that leaves and flowers end up on the compost. The parts of the plant can be dried using various methods and preserved for later use.

Pineapple sage can be dried for consumption or as decoration

dried bouquets

The inflorescences of pineapple sage are suitable for making dried salvia bouquets. Cut off branches that are in bloom. The ideal time for pruning is late afternoon, as there is no morning hoarfrost on the leaves. Tie the stems together with raffia and hang the bouquets upside down on a clothesline. Make sure that the raffia is not tied too tightly so that there are no pressure points. The bouquets should hang airy and dry so that the drying process is not disturbed.

Alternatively, you can place the stems you cut off in a vase filled with one part glycerine and two parts water. The stems absorb the mixture so that the glycerin settles in the plant parts. The water evaporates and the stems dry out. The remaining glycerine ensures that stems, leaves and flowers remain flexible and do not crumble.

Good to know:

  • complete drying can be recognized by the rustling of the flowers
  • Hairspray extends the shelf life of the bouquets
  • by drying in a dark room, the flower color is preserved

dry spices

You can build up a supply of dry spices by drying them gently. Cut off the parts of the plant with a sharp knife so that they are not destroyed and the essential oils are preserved. Harvest the leaves and flowers in the afternoon and place them individually on a plate lined with paper towels. This is placed in a warm and airy place for the next two weeks. After drying, the plant parts are stored in a dark, lockable container.

Faster drying

With the help of silica gel, you can dry parts of the pineapple sage plant within a week. Place the beads in the bottom of a can and spread the collected leaves and flowers on top. Cover the plant parts with the gel beads and close the jar. The balls are harmless to health and absorb moisture.

Category:

Vegetable garden