How to dry flower petals

Drying petals at home is quite straightforward, although results may vary depending on the type of flowers and method you choose, so experimentation is always a good idea. Here are 2 methods to get you started.

A pretty arrangement of dried rose petals and rose heads scattered across a white surface along with a wooden spoon and small toiletries bottle and some white lace draped over it

Air-drying method

If you have a few weeks to dry your petals then air-drying works best for most types of flowers. Drying them as whole flowers takes longer than individual petals, so choose the method that will work best for your project.

Whole flowers (drying time: 2 to 4 weeks)

It is essential that you choose flowers that are just beginning to open, with no sign of damage. Pick them on a fine, clear day, when there is no sign of moisture (which could potentially turn them brown when dried and cause them to rot).

Strip each flower stem of most or all of the leaves. Hang large blooms individually, or rubber-band stems of smaller flowers in bunches of 2 to 3 stems.

Find a dry, dark area with good circulation, such as an airing cupboard, attic or unused closet. Tie the stems to a hook or hanger so they hang upside down at least 15cm below a ceiling. Leave for at least 2 to 4 weeks until completely dry – the flowers are ready when the petals are crisp to touch. Gently pluck off the petals for your project or use the flowers intact.

Petals (drying time: 2 to 4 days)

Choose whole flowers as specified in the steps above, then pluck the petals by gently pulling each petal from the top of the stem.

Place the petals on a drying sheet, such as a mesh screen, or a flat metal splatter shield for cooking. Make sure the petals are laid out in a single layer and are not overlapping.

Position the drying sheet on a flat surface away from direct sunlight and with good circulation. Turn your petals at least once a day to ensure the petals dry evenly.

The drying usually takes a couple of days, but you should only remove the petals from the drying sheet after they have become crispy. If they are not fully dried when you store them, they will go mouldy.

Microwave method

You can use a microwave to speed up the drying process considerably, and drying individual petals is really easy (as shown below). Whole flowers can also be dried using a microwave, but you need to use a desiccant to absorb the extra moisture.

Choose whole flowers as specified above, then pluck the petals by gently pulling each petal from the top of the stem.

Place a double layer of kitchen paper on a microwavable plate and lay a single layer of petals on top, making sure that they don’t overlap. Cover the petals with another single sheet of kitchen paper and then place another plate on top.

Place the plates in a microwave oven and use a high setting for 40 seconds. Test the petals by lifting off the top plate and layer of paper – the petals should feel dry but not crispy. If still damp, place back into the microwave and continue to ‘cook’. As all microwave ovens vary, you will have to experiment with time.

If you want your petals to be even crispier, then after microwaving, spread them out onto some more clean, dry kitchen paper on a flat surface. Keep them away from any breeze, moisture and dust and leave for a further 24 hours.

Tip: Use your dried flowers in craft projects as you like. Dried flowers fade quickly in sunlight or extreme heat, so make sure to store them in an sealed jar or bag, kept away from windows.