How to Make Lavender Dried Flowers
As a classic representative of aromatherapy, lavender dried flowers not only maintain the natural beauty of fresh flowers but also preserve their unique fragrance for a long time. This article will systematically explain the complete plan for professional lavender dried flower production and preservation, from collection and processing to creative applications, allowing the natural fragrance to accompany life.
Complete Process of Making Lavender Dried Flowers
Accurate Harvesting Timing
The best harvesting period is when 1/3 of the lower florets of the inflorescence are open, as this is when the essential oil content is the highest. Choose to harvest in the morning between 9-11 am on consecutive three sunny days, avoiding the dew period. Use disinfected scissors to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle above the first pair of leaves, leaving a complete flower stem of 20-30 cm.
Scientific Drying Process
Traditional Hanging Method: Tie 5-8 bouquets with a rubber band and hang them in a well-ventilated environment with a temperature of 18-25°C and humidity less than 50%. Keep the distance between the bouquets at more than 15 cm and rotate the light-exposed side regularly. The drying process can be completed in 2-3 weeks.
Modern Fast Drying Method: Place a layer of silica gel desiccant in the microwave and heat intermittently at 700W (30 seconds on, 1 minute off) for 3-4 times. Note that it is necessary to use a ceramic plate throughout to avoid contact with metal.
Lavender Dried Flower Preservation System
Environmental Control Standards
Store in sealed glass jars with a layer of food-grade desiccant at the bottom, dried flowers in the middle, and activated carbon bags on top. The storage environment should be away from light and maintain a stable temperature between 15-22°C, with relative humidity controlled below 40%.
Regular Maintenance Strategy
When checking the jar monthly, gently brush off the dust from the flower spikes with a soft-bristle brush. If fading occurs, treat with a special dried flower color fixative spray. If the fragrance weakens, add 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil to the inner lining of the jar lid.
Creative Applications of Lavender Dried Flowers
Space Aesthetics Installation
Layer lavender in different drying stages into suspended glass bottles to create a dynamic dried flower art installation. Combined with LED warm light strips, it can create different lighting effects day and night.
Multi-functional Lifestyle Products
Make dried flower aromatherapy wax tablets: Embed碎花瓣 (crushed petals) in soy wax and pair with cinnamon sticks to create a natural diffuser. When making mosquito repellent hanging bags, mix dried flowers with mugwort in a 3:1 ratio, which can increase the mosquito repellent effect by 40%.
With scientific production techniques and systematic preservation methods, lavender dried flowers can not only maintain their ornamental value for a long time but also derive various practical functions. Mastering these professional techniques allows the purple romance to break through seasonal limitations and infuse life with lasting natural fragrance.