Herbs should be harvested from unsprayed dust-free zones and spread out on racks or suitable fittings. Smaller batches may be hung in bunches. Rotting may set in if fresh herbs are left compressed in bags, baskets, etc. Never wash herbs before drying or place one above another. Turn or agitate daily. They should be dried in a well-ventilated room in the absence of excessive heat, sunlight or bright lights which may destroy the volatile oils of aromatic herbs. They should not be cut until thoroughly dried.

Only roots should be washed soon after lifting, and cut before drying into hardness. In a few cases drying of roots may be assisted by added heat.