How to Harvest Calendula for Tea

Calendula is a variety of flowering herb that has a myriad of medicinal applications. When taken as a tea, it treats ulcers and intestinal colitis. Calendula can easily be grown in domestic gardens, and its flowers harvested for tea production. The growing plants are said to deter insects from tomato plants and can also be used to treat skin ailments such as acne, eczema and rashes.

Knife or clippers
Screen
Sealable plastic bag or glass jar with lid

Instructions

- 1
  Grow plants from seeds in partial shade or full sun. The plant will flower 40 to 50 days after germination.
- 2
  Pick flowers late in the morning after dew has dried. Cut flower heads only after they have reached their prime. Cut flowers again a couple of days later, when the new flowers are in their prime. This will stimulate flower growth.
- 3
  Spread flowers on a screen to dry. The screen should be positioned in the shade and protected from rain. Good airflow will expedite the drying process.
- 4
  Turn the flowers over several times a day. This will prevent mold or fungus from forming.
- 5
  Store the flowers in a sealable plastic bag or a glass jar as soon as they are dry.

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