The scent of summer is alive in the herb fields. Just brushing past a row of basil releases a burst of sweet spice. Parsley waves in the breeze like green lace. And mint? Its cool aroma is unmistakable and refreshing.

Late June marks the peak of herb season in many U-pick farms. These fragrant plants are not only beautiful but immensely versatile—bringing freshness and depth to everything from salads to sauces to teas.

🌿 How to Harvest Herbs Without Harming the Plant

Harvesting herbs properly ensures you get the best flavor and help the plant keep growing:

  • Harvest in the morning: Oils are strongest just after the dew dries but before the sun gets too hot.
  • Use clean, sharp scissors or snips: This prevents bruising or tearing.
  • Pinch above a leaf pair: Cutting just above a set of healthy leaves encourages bushier growth.
  • Don’t take more than one-third of the plant at once: It needs energy to recover.

Regular, gentle harvesting actually stimulates many herbs—like basil and mint—to grow fuller and stronger.

🌱 Best Herbs to Pick This Week

You’re likely to find:

  • Basil – sweet, spicy, perfect for pesto and tomato dishes.
  • Parsley – clean, green flavor, great raw or cooked.
  • Mint – cooling, aromatic, ideal for drinks and desserts.
  • Cilantro – zesty and bold, especially for summer salsas.
  • Thyme & Oregano – earthy, small-leaved, and great for drying.

Talk to the farmer about what’s in best shape that week — some herbs peak fast.

🧺 Preserving Herbs for Year-Round Flavor

Fresh herbs don’t last long, but there are great ways to preserve their character:

  • Drying: Tie small bundles upside down in a dark, dry space with airflow. Store in jars away from light. Best for woody herbs like thyme, oregano, and sage.
  • Freezing: Chop and freeze herbs like basil, mint, or parsley in ice cube trays with olive oil or water. Drop into sauces or soups later.
  • Herb butter or pesto: Blend soft herbs with butter or olive oil and freeze in small portions.

Each method preserves flavor in its own way — experiment and see what works best for your kitchen.

🍽 Simple Ideas to Use Fresh Herbs

  • Stir chopped herbs into scrambled eggs or omelets
  • Toss mint into lemonade or iced tea
  • Rub meats or veggies with herb-infused oil before grilling
  • Mix chopped parsley or cilantro into cold grain salads
  • Top pizzas, flatbreads, or focaccia with fresh basil after baking

🌾 U-Pick Farms with Fresh Herbs This Week

Ready to fill your basket with fragrance? These farms currently offer fresh herbs for picking:

Inhale deeply. Herbs connect us to the soil in a uniquely sensory way—vibrant color, bold flavor, and scents that linger on your hands long after the harvest is done.

Whether you grow them on a windowsill or pick them fresh from the field, herbs are the essence of summer.