How to harvest herb seeds How to harvest herb seeds Your herb garden has given you great pleasure from the planting of the first seeds, through the excitement of the first sprouts and continuing to the mature plant which you have enjoyed in so many ways. Now it's time to think about next year's herb garden and harvesting the seeds provided by your plant. Most herbs will begin to flower a little after mid-summer, attracting the insects they need for fertilization. Once this process has taken place the petals begin to drop revealing the seeds or seed pods. It is very important that you pay attention to your plant during this time if you desire to harvest the seeds.
Many herbs are, by nature, self-seeding and can shed their seeds in a matter of days.
The best way to harvest herb seeds if your herbs are in small pots is to gather medium sized sheets of white or light colored paper so you can lay the herb on its side. With the plant on the paper, gently shake the plant allowing the seeds to fall. Many herb seeds like chamomile are tiny and this will aid you with seeing the seeds. Next you will need to remove any dried leaves or plant parts which have shaken loose. Spread the seeds on the paper to dry and place in a sunny area with little or no drafts.