The delicate and fragrant lavender is easy to dry and store and then be reused in aromatic bags or for a bouquet of dried flowers. To dry lavender it is important to harvest the flowers at the right time, when their color is at the highest level of brilliance and fragrance. You can then choose to carry out the process in a dark room or in the sun, depending on the desired use. Read on to learn the two methods.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Dry Lavender in a Dark Room
Step 1. Harvest the lavender before the flowers are fully open
When the buds have started to open, cut it at the base of the stem - this way the dried lavender will retain its strong floral aroma and maintain a vibrant purple color.
Step 2. Cut the ripe lavender flowers just above the leaves
Try to get as long stems as possible. Collecting the lavender, acts at the same time as pruning the plant, thus favoring its regrowth during the winter.
Step 3. When you have collected enough, make a deck
Tap the base of the stems to line them up nicely.
Step 4. Tie the stems with a rubber band
Twist it towards the base and continue until they are tight (without pulping them). Using a rubber band rather than a string or bow, ensures that the stems do not slip off even after losing volume during drying.
Step 5. Find a dark place to dry the lavender
Drying it slowly and in the dark is the best way to maintain its color, as the sun will discolour the purple flowers. Look for a dry, dark place, such as a shed, garage, or shady spot under a tree.
Step 6. Hang the lavender bouquet upside down
Attach a piece of the elastic to a hook or nail, or tie it to a hanger.
Step 7. Let the lavender dry for 2 - 4 weeks
Take a look every now and then to check where you are in the process. When you run your hand over the flowers, they should immediately fall off the stem. You can leave them on the stem or detach them to use them in bags or for some recipe.
Method 2 of 2: Dry the Lavender in the Sun
Step 1. Collect lavender
Follow the same steps as for the previous method.
Step 2. Arrange it on a wooden block
A cutting board or wooden shelf will do just fine for drying lavender in the sun. If you use a metal base, the lavender will get too hot, while using some plastic you could end up with a disgusting mush.
Step 3. Place the lavender in a sunny spot
Move the shelf to a spot in full sun, outdoors or indoors. This drying method is much faster than the first, but be prepared for discolored flowers.
If you live in a very rainy area, you can dry the lavender near a sunny window or move it indoors as soon as there is danger of rain
Step 4. Let it dry completely
It should take less than a week. Check every couple of days to see if it is already dry. It will be ready when the flowers detach from the stems as soon as they are touched.
Advice
- Lavender can ward off moths - hanging it in closets will not only make your clothes fragrant, but it can also prevent insects from occurring.
- The time required for drying depends on the climatic conditions. If you live in a humid area, it may take longer.
- With a half neck knot, you can reuse the elastic multiple times.
