How to Dry Lavender: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Have you ever wondered how to dry lavender so that you can enjoy its lovely scent and use it in your crafts or cooking? Drying lavender is easy and fun, and it's a great way to preserve the beauty of this fragrant herb. In this article, we will guide you through the process of drying lavender, from harvesting to storing. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this step-by-step guide is perfect for you.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Drying lavender is a simple process, but there are a few things you need to know before you start. First, you should harvest your lavender when it is in full bloom, as the flowers contain the highest amount of essential oils at this stage. Second, you should choose a dry and warm day to harvest your lavender, as moisture can cause mold to grow on the flowers. Third, you should avoid harvesting lavender after it has rained, as wet flowers are more prone to molding.

Now that you know what to keep in mind, let's get started!

Step 1: Harvesting Your Lavender

Lavender being harvested

The first step in drying lavender is harvesting it. To do this, you will need a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the lavender stems just above the leaves, making sure to leave a few inches of stem attached to the flowers. You can also cut off any dead or damaged flowers while you're at it.

After harvesting your lavender, gently shake off any dirt or insects that may be clinging to the flowers. You can also rinse the flowers under cold water if you want, but make sure to pat them dry with a towel afterwards.

Step 2: Bundling Your Lavender

Lavender being bundled

Now that you have harvested your lavender, it's time to bundle it up. Take a handful of lavender stems and tie them together with a rubber band or a piece of string. Make sure the bundle is not too big or too tight, as this can prevent air from circulating around the flowers.

You can also add some extra herbs or flowers to your lavender bundle if you like, such as rosemary, thyme, or chamomile. This will give your dried lavender a unique and delightful fragrance.

Step 3: Hanging Your Lavender

Lavender being hung

Once you have bundled your lavender, it's time to hang it up to dry. Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to hang your lavender, such as a closet or a basement. Avoid hanging your lavender in direct sunlight or in humid areas, as this can cause the flowers to wilt or mold.

Hang your lavender upside down by the rubber band or string. Make sure that the flowers are not touching each other, as this can also cause them to mold. Leave your lavender to dry for about 1-2 weeks, or until the flowers are completely dry and brittle to the touch.

Step 4: Storing Your Lavender

Dried lavender being stored

Once your lavender is dry, it's time to store it. Remove the rubber band or string from your lavender bundle and gently strip the flowers off the stems. Store the flowers in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic bag. Make sure to label your container with the date and type of lavender, so you can easily identify it later.

You can use your dried lavender in a variety of ways, such as making sachets, potpourri, tea, or even soap. Enjoy the beautiful scent and benefits of lavender all year round!

Lavender, aromatherapy, crafts, home decor, gardening