Natural drying is a process that has been used since ancient times. It
involves sun drying in the field. It is the easiest method for drying
flowers such as delphiniums, globe thistle, celosia, and hydrangea. Tie
flowers together in small bunches and hang up with the heads down in
dark, well-ventilated area.
This method requires no drying equipment. It uses solar energy and
requires large amount of space. The plants can be damaged by weather.
Sometimes plants are placed by hand on drying frames or stands, to be
air dried in barns or sheds. This method of drying is labor intensive
and can take several weeks. The exact length of time for adequate drying
depends on temperature and humidity.
The flowers are hanged upside down so that the stem remains straight.
If they are hanged with right side up, they would bend over and the
result will be dried flowers with distorted stems. The ideal places for
hanging the flowers is a place with ideal conditions:
- Darkness
- Very good airflow
- Cool updrafts
- Perfect humidity levels
Usually, a little grooming is all that is necessary for naturally
dry materials. However, cones and pods may need to be washed in water
and a mild detergent. Fragile seed heads, such as those of pampas grass,
as well as mature cattails, can be sprayed with hair spray or other
aerosol lacquers or plastics to hold the heads in place and to prevent
shattering as the plants age. Lacquers or shellac can be sprayed or
painted on fruits and cones to give them a more shiny, decorative look a
swell as to help preserve them. Remove seeds from pinecones to prevent
shedding that may occur at a later time.
