Pick Your Own Lemon Verbena in the Netherlands
Imagine strolling through a sunny Dutch farm, the air thick with the scent of citrus and fresh earth. That’s the magic of picking your own lemon verbena. This elegant herb, with its long, slender leaves, practically begs to be touched. As you gently pinch a stem between your fingers, the most incredible lemony aroma bursts free—no actual lemons required! It’s a sensory high-five from nature.
Bring your friends or family along for the fun. Make it a game: who can find the fullest, greenest sprigs? Kids love the instant smell-o-vision effect. The trick to harvesting is simple: look for leaves that are vibrant green and free of spots, then snip the top third of the stem. Don’t be shy—regular picking actually encourages the plant to grow bushier. Fill your basket with a generous bundle; you’ll be amazed how much you’ll use once you’re home.
How to Use Your Harvest
Back in your kitchen, lemon verbena is a superstar. It’s too delicate for long cooking, but perfect for infusions. Here’s how to make it last: rinse the stems, gently pat dry, and store them in a damp paper towel inside a ziplock bag in the fridge for up to a week. Or dry them by hanging small bunches upside down in a dark, airy spot for a week—crush the leaves and store in a jar for year-round use.
Recipe: Lemon Verbena Tea Boil 2 cups of water. Place a handful of fresh lemon verbena leaves (or 2 tablespoons dried) in a teapot. Pour the hot water over them, cover, and steep for 5–7 minutes. Strain into your favorite mug. Add a spoonful of honey and a slice of fresh ginger for a zingy twist. It’s calming, refreshing, and perfect for winding down after a day at the farm.
Cocktail Recipe: Lemon Verbena Gin Fizz Muddle 6 fresh lemon verbena leaves with ½ oz simple syrup and ½ oz fresh lemon juice in a shaker. Add 2 oz gin and a handful of ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or club soda. Garnish with a sprig of lemon verbena—it’s like a garden party in a glass. Cheers!