Preserving the beauty of flowers by drying them is a wonderful way to keep them long-lasting. While various methods exist, the ease and effectiveness of air drying make it a popular choice, especially for roses.
Air Drying (Hanging Method)
Often considered the easiest method for drying flowers like roses, air drying helps maintain their natural shape.
- How to Do It:
- Gather flowers you wish to dry. Choose blooms that are fully open but have not yet begun to fade.
- Remove excess leaves from the stems.
- Bundle a few stems together (3-6 flowers works well) and secure the stems tightly with string, a rubber band, or floral wire.
- Hang the bundles upside down in a dry, dark place. This could be a closet, attic, or unused room. The darkness helps preserve their colour, and a dry environment prevents mold.
- Ensure there is good air circulation around the bundles.
- Check periodically. It typically takes about two weeks for roses to fully dry using this technique. Other flowers might take more or less time depending on their type and size.
- Once fully dry, the flowers will feel stiff and papery.
Reference Information: The easiest way to dry roses is by hanging them upside down in a dry, dark place. This method helps preserve their shape and colour. It typically takes about two weeks for roses to fully dry using this technique.
Other Popular Drying Methods
Beyond air drying, other techniques offer different results, particularly if you prefer flat flowers or want to retain vibrant colour.
Pressing
Ideal for smaller, flatter flowers or petals, pressing yields a two-dimensional result perfect for crafts or framing.
- How to Do It:
- Place flowers between sheets of absorbent paper (like newspaper or blotting paper).
- Carefully position the paper and flowers inside a heavy book or a purpose-built flower press.
- Apply weight by stacking more books on top or tightening the press screws.
- Replace the absorbent paper after the first few days to absorb more moisture.
- Drying typically takes 1-3 weeks, depending on the flower and method.
Using Desiccants (e.g., Silica Gel)
This method uses a drying agent to draw moisture out of flowers, often preserving their colour and shape exceptionally well.
- How to Do It:
- Choose an airtight container large enough to hold the flowers.
- Pour a layer of silica gel (available at craft stores) into the bottom of the container.
- Carefully place the flowers on top of the silica gel, ensuring they are not touching each other. You can use wire to support shapes.
- Gently pour more silica gel over and around the flowers until they are completely covered.
- Seal the container tightly.
- Check periodically. Drying times vary greatly (a few days to a week or more). The silica gel beads often change colour when they are saturated.
- Once dry, carefully remove the flowers and gently brush away any clinging silica gel.
Tips for Successful Drying
- Pick Flowers at the Right Time: Choose fresh flowers that are just past their peak or fully open, but not wilted. The best time is typically in the late morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Prepare Stems: Remove leaves that would be submerged in water if you were displaying them, or any bruised/damaged foliage.
- Location for Air Drying: Reiterate the importance of a dry, dark place with good air circulation to prevent mold and fading.
- Handle with Care: Dried flowers are fragile and can break easily.
Drying flowers allows you to capture a moment in time and enjoy their beauty for months or even years to come.
