How to Gather Fennel Seeds
- 1). Cut the seed heads from the plant after the flowers wilt and the heads begin to turn brown and brittle. Place them in a paper sack as you harvest.
- 2). Place the sack in a dry, well-ventilated room. Leave the sack open so air circulates around the seed heads. Dry them in the sack for an additional five to seven days.
- 3). Separate the seeds from the seed heads. Hold the fennel over a bowl and rub the seed head between your thumb and forefinger, releasing the seeds into the bowl.
- 4). Remove any non-seed material from the bowl, including chaff and dried leaves. Fennel seeds are about the size of a grain of rice and are light tan in color.
- 5). Store the seeds in a sealed bag or container in a cool pantry until you are ready to use them. The seeds can also be stored in the freezer.
