How to Dehydrate Herbs With a Fan Dehydrator

Harvest herbs for drying when the flowers on the plant are just about ready to open. Collect them in the morning right after the dew has evaporated, taking care not to bruise any leaves.

Rinse the herbs in cool water and shake gently to remove excess water. Inspect the herbs carefully and remove any damaged, soiled or blemished leaves.

Preheat the dehydrator with the thermostat set between 95 and 115 degrees. Place herbs in a single layer on dehydrator trays, and place the trays inside the dehydrator.

Check herbs periodically. Rotate trays so the herbs dry evenly. Drying will typically take between one and four hours, depending on the type of herb. Herbs are adequately dry when leaves shatter and stems snap.

Condition herbs before storing. The University of Missouri Extension recommends conditioning in order to evenly distributes the moisture left in dried herbs. Fill a large nonporous container no more than two-thirds full of one kind of herb. Cover the container and set it in a warm, dry location.

Shake herbs daily, checking for condensation on the lid. If you notice any condensation, return herbs to the dehydrator for additional drying time. Then begin the conditioning process over again. Discard herbs if you see any signs of mold on them.

Shake the container daily for 10 to 14 days, looking for condensation and spoilage each time.

Put dried herbs in a small, airtight container. Store the herbs in a cool dry place away from sunlight. For best results, use dried herbs within one year.