Drying Flowers with Silica Gel

Step 1

Trim stems, remove leaves and pat flowers dry

Step 2

Pour silica gel into an airtight container until it creates a layer about 1.5 inches thick

Step 3

Place flowers face-up on top of silica gel and pour more crystals in and round the petals

Step 4

Seal the container, and place it in a cool, dry place for 2-4 days (more if bud is very thick).

Step 5

Once completely dry, remove flowers from the silica gel and brush off excess crystals with a soft bristle paintbrush.

Step 6

Follow steps 1-2 of the conventional method, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container. No lid is needed.

Step 7

Place the container with flowers in the microwave (without a lid) along with a glass of water. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until dry. Most flowers will take 1-3 minutes.

Step 8

Gently remove any excess silica gel beads with a paintbrush.