Must...Keep...Harvesting!

Calendula heading into the dehydrator that runs 24/7 these days.

The high temps and humidity here in Michigan recently have kicked garden production into full gear! I am harvesting daily and abundantly from the garden and feverishly (literally - its been in the 90s for days!) both drying plants for later use as teas, infusing oils for handmade skin care recipes to come and making a few tinctures here and there, mainly to supplement the family medicine chest. More to come on all of these, when I come up for more air!

Gorgeous flowers destined to someday become an infused oil or facial tea.

The calendula and chamomile have been the stars of the show, keeping me the most busy.  These are two of the plants I use the most in skin care due to their diverse applications, so I am thankful for the incredible abundance they are providing this summer. I think much of it has to do with them being in garden beds that were frequented by our chickens last summer.
  

Dear basil, thanks for hangin' in there!

The basil that I really, truly thought would never make it, but talked to a lot, has grown mammoth and will begin a harvest in the next day or so. Just a sneak peek - I might be using it in July's mask of the month :)

Phew! I could go on and on. I am just so thankful that the plants are thriving and I get to be there with them to watch them go through their many stages and changes. It is truly beautiful and therapeutic for me...

How are your gardens doing? I'd love to hear about any goodies you might be crafting with your harvest!