Apple Mint Buds

 Apple Mint is tall and majestic in its prime.  When the buds start to open it is ready to harvest.  I allowed these buds to open just a little more than I usually would but they still are not even half way to full bloom.  I fill flat baskets and lay them out in my living room or kitchen until the buds are dry, before storing them. A cup of mint tea made with just buds really packs a wallop so I suggest using 1/2 teaspoon dried herb per cup for your first cup or two of tea.   When I choose to dry the whole plant I usually cut it in half so that it won't be too long to hang in my living room.