Flower Preservation: Air Drying
Air drying is one of the easiest, least fuss methods of drying flowers. Basically all you have to do is hang the flowers upside to air dry them.
There are many types of flowers that air dry extremely well. However, there are also many flowers that do not lend themselves to air drying very well. Often trial and error is the best way to learn if a particular flower will air dry well.
Firm, Woody Stems Are Best For Air Drying
In general, flowers with firm, woody stems take very well to air drying. Examples in this category include flowers such as roses, lavender, coxcomb, straw flowers, yarrow, etc. Flowers with smaller, more delicate stems are best to avoid when trying to air dry.
Examples to steer clear of include flowers like asters, daisies, buttercups, etc. Of course there are exceptions to these rules, so if you want to find out of a follower is a good candidate for air drying, give it a try and see what happens.
Air Dry Flowers By Hanging Them Upside Down
To air dry flowers, tie a small bunch of the chosen flower together. Be sure not to put too many flowers in one bunch or they may rot in the middle from the moisture. You want them loose enough to allow a bit of air to circulate among them.
Hang the flowers upside down to help them keep their shape. It is best to hang the flowers in a dry place with a bit of airflow. In general, a back bedroom or pantry works very well for air drying most flowers. Some flowers, such as straw flowers, are an exception to the rule and will dry just about anywhere, in any position, including a moist, warm kitchen!
Leave the flowers to hang for three to four weeks, checking periodically to be sure they are not molding. They should feel crispy and crackle under the touch when they are thoroughly dried. Once dried, the flowers can be used for a myriad of craft or decorating projects. My personal favorite is making dried flowers wreaths with mine. Or the flowers can simply be left hanging from the ceiling for an aesthetically pleasing effect.
By Amber Reifsteck, The Woodland Elf
The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only. If you choose to rely on the information on this website, you do so at your own risk and you assume responsibility for the results. (Full disclaimer here)
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