Drying lilies is a great way to preserve their beauty and enjoy their fragrance long after they've finished blooming. Here's how to dry lilies:
1. Choose the Right Lilies
- Select fresh lilies: Choose lilies that are in full bloom with firm petals and no signs of wilting.
- Avoid lilies with heavy pollen: Lilies with lots of pollen can stain your drying materials.
2. Prepare the Lilies for Drying
- Remove the lower leaves: Cut off any leaves below the waterline.
- Trim the stems: Cut the stems to the desired length.
3. Choose a Drying Method
Air Drying
- Bundle the lilies: Tie the stems together with string or a rubber band.
- Hang upside down: Suspend the lilies in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area.
- Allow for drying: This method can take several weeks.
Silica Gel Drying
- Place lilies in a container: Fill a container with silica gel crystals.
- Bury the lilies: Gently bury the lilies in the silica gel, ensuring all petals are covered.
- Allow for drying: This method takes around 1-2 weeks.
4. Store Dried Lilies
- Keep in a cool, dry place: Once dried, store lilies in a sealed container or bag to prevent dust and moisture.
- Enjoy your dried lilies: Display them in a vase or use them for crafting projects.
Tips:
- You can also use a dehydrator to dry lilies.
- For air drying, consider hanging lilies in a cool, dark place with good airflow.
- Silica gel can be reused by heating it in an oven to remove moisture.
