Drying Your Garden Flowers with Silica Gel

 

The garden is in full bloom and flowers like zinnias and marigolds are offering a spectacular colorful vibe. I have also become fond of celosia, sort of a solo joy as I place stems in a vase watching them last for days.  

Having access to fresh flowers is a wonderful addition to the garden and many times I like to dry these beauties for future projects.

Most flowers can be dried by using the air-dry method.  I like to select flowers that I would use fresh by gathering medium size bundles of about 10 or 15 stems.  

Then I remove the bottom foliage and any brown petals and tie them off with twine before hanging upside down.  Air drying indoors will take about a week or two depending on the temperatures.

Freezing drying is another method and the machines are rather expensive. The flowers do hold their shape and colors tend to fade.  

My favorite method which is just a fun activity is to use silica gel.  This gel is highly porous and used to remove moisture from gases and liquids. It looks like a small bead and can be purchased in packets or by pound bags.

If you have the desire to try this drying process, then I recommend the pound bags because you will need at least 5 lbs. depending on the quantity of flowers you hope to dry.

Most craft stores will have this available, or you can get it delivered by ordering on amazon.  I like to use "Wisedry Silica Gel" because you can reuse it.  

You will also need an airtight container; Rubbermaid is perfect for this and size will depend on the flowers you are using.  

How to Dry Garden Flowers using Silica Gel 

The process to use silica gel for drying flowers is pretty basic. 

1. Begin by filling the bottom of your plastic container with the beads.  
2. Then cut the blooms from the stem and place on that top layer of beads.
3. Gently cover the flowers with the gel beads until they are not visible.
4. Cover with the plastic lid.

Now you have the option to dry in the microwave or let them sit for about a week.  I have done both and I recommend letting them sit undisturbed because they will be less brittle.  They also hold their color beautifully.

Experimenting with Zinnias and Marigolds

With my little project I was drying zinnias and marigolds.  I found with the zinnias the larger blooms are best because you have multiple petal layers.  Their petals tend to be thin after they dry, so you want a full flower when one breaks.

The marigolds to my surprise were really pretty and I have another batch drying to use in a future wreath project.  I like how they turned out, not only did they hold their shape, but their color was perfectly preserved. 

Mabe this little project idea on drying your garden flowers with silica gel will spark your interest.  It's fun to experiment then later use these materials for making wreaths.

Be the good,

Carole West

Materials for this project can be ordered on amazon

>> Silica Gel and Rubbermaid Containers. 

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