Air Fryer Hacks: Drying Flowers Like A Pro

Drying flowers is a great way to preserve their beauty and fragrance. While the traditional air-drying method can take weeks, an air fryer can significantly reduce the drying time to just 15 to 30 minutes. This involves cutting the stems of the flowers to fit inside the air fryer, arranging them evenly in the basket, and setting the temperature to 80°C (176°F) for 30 minutes. However, it's important to note that not all flowers may work well with this method, and the temperature and timing should be carefully monitored to avoid burning or discolouration.

Air fryer temperature and duration

The ideal temperature and duration for drying flowers in an air fryer depend on the type and size of flowers you are using. For roses, which are the most recommended type of flower for this process, a temperature of 80°C for 30 minutes should be sufficient. However, some sources recommend a slightly lower temperature of 180°F (82.2°C) for 20-30 minutes.

It is important to note that the temperature and duration can vary depending on the type and size of the flowers you are using. For example, some flowers may require a lower temperature setting or a shorter duration to avoid burning or discolouration. It is recommended to start with a lower temperature and adjust as needed. Additionally, you can try drying a few stalks first to test the settings before drying a larger batch.

When using an air fryer to dry flowers, it is crucial to trim the stems to a length that fits comfortably in the air fryer basket, usually around 2-3 inches (5-7 cm). This ensures even drying and prevents the flowers from being squished or overlapping. Overlapping flowers may result in uneven heating and affect the drying outcome.

To optimise the drying process, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature for 3-5 minutes before placing the flowers inside. This helps ensure that the flowers start drying immediately, reducing the evaporation time and better preserving their colour and shape.

Choosing flowers for air drying

Flowers with thicker stems are better for dried flower arrangements, but this doesn't rule out thin-stemmed flowers. For flowers with thin stems, like everlasting daisies, push florist wire through the centre of the flower head and then back again so it hooks on. The wire will act as the stem and can be easily added to dried floral arrangements.

The best flowers for air drying are those with sturdy stems: straw flowers, grasses and grains, hydrangeas, and roses. Other good options include amaranth, celosia, lavender, eucalyptus, sea holly, yarrow, and gomphrena.

Small and sturdy blossoms like hydrangeas, amaranth, lavender, baby's breath, celosia, and strawflower do well with air drying because they have a lower water content than other flowers and hold up well during the long drying process.

Flowers with multiple layers, such as roses, tulips, zinnias, and chrysanthemums, can withstand the heat of the oven or microwave.

When choosing flowers to dry, it's important to pick those that are just starting to open to maximise their shelf life and reduce the risk of petal loss. The healthiest flowers will also hold their integrity for longer, so make sure to pick blooms that are not wilted, damaged, or compromised.

Preparing flowers for air drying

The next step is trimming and cleaning. Use sharp scissors to trim the stems to 2-3 cm in length, removing excess leaves and stems while retaining the main flower head. Then, gently clean the flowers in water, adding a little salt to remove bacteria and small insects. Pat the flowers dry with a towel and let them air dry completely before placing them in the air fryer.

When preparing flowers for air drying, it is crucial to select blooms that are fresh and not fully open. This helps maintain their shape during the drying process. Additionally, removing any leaves from the stems is important as they can interfere with preservation.

Overall, preparing flowers for air drying requires careful selection, trimming, cleaning, and drying before placing them in the air fryer for the final drying process.

Air drying vs other methods

Air drying is the most traditional method of drying flowers. It involves binding small bouquets together and hanging them upside down in a dark, dry, and warm place for two to four weeks. This method is great for making dried bouquets, but it can take a while for flowers to fully dry without some sort of accelerant.

Other methods of drying flowers include:

• Using a microwave with a bowl of desiccant, such as silica gel or cat litter, to help dry the plant without shriveling. This method allows you to see results within days rather than weeks and is best for flower heads or smaller plants.
• Submerging flowers in a bed of desiccant, such as kitty litter or silica gel, and letting them sit for a few weeks to remove their moisture. This method takes longer than using a microwave but can preserve their colour more effectively.
• Baking flowers in the oven at a low temperature for a couple of hours. This method is quick, but you may lose a lot of petals and it is not the best for preserving the colour of your flowers.
• Pressing flowers using heavy objects or a flower press to squeeze the moisture out. This method is effective for drying flowers for crafts, artwork, or stationery.

Air fryers combine the processes of a dehydrator and an oven, drying flowers in as little as 15 minutes. However, some people suggest that the airflow in an air fryer may be too strong and could blow the flowers apart as they dry.

Creative uses for dried flowers

Dried flowers can be used for a variety of creative purposes, from decorative displays to crafting and fragrance-making. Here are some ideas for how to use your dried flowers:

Decorative Displays

• Arrange them in a vase: Dried flowers can be displayed in a vase all year round, creating a stunning centerpiece for your home. Start by inserting floral foam at the base of the vase and then arrange the flowers and foliage to create a shape you like.
• Create a wreath or flower crown: Weave dried flowers into a wreath or crown for a boho-inspired look. For a wedding, choose color combinations that match your dress and the wedding theme.
• Press into a journal, cards, or letters: Pressing dried flowers is a great way to add a personal touch to your stationery. You can also decorate your journal with petals and stems from gifts you received.
• Picture frames: Transform a plain picture frame into a work of art by incorporating pressed dried flowers. Arrange the flowers between sheets of glass or use adhesive to affix them to the frame.
• Phone case: Keep your favorite dried flowers close by placing them in your phone case. Use clear resin or glue to keep them in place.
• Lampshades: Glue small, colorful blooms onto a lampshade to add a whimsical touch to your home. The light will shine through the flowers, creating a beautiful glow.

Crafting

• Flower confetti: Use dried petals to create eco-friendly confetti for weddings, parties, or other celebrations.
• Bookmarks: Press small flowers and arrange them on sturdy card stock, securing them with glue. Protect the flowers with self-adhesive sheets or laminate the card.
• Greeting cards: Choose a blank card and arrange your dried flowers on it, securing them with a thin layer of craft glue. Add a personalized message and seal the flowers with clear adhesive film.
• Resin jewelry: Encasing dried flowers in resin creates unique and lasting jewelry pieces. Choose small, colorful blooms or petals and arrange them within molds to make earrings, necklaces, or bracelets.
• Soap bars: Make your own soap bars by melting a soap base and pouring it into silicone molds with dried flowers like chamomile or rose petals.
• Hair accessories: Attach small blooms, such as baby's breath or lavender, to hairpins, combs, or headbands for natural, bohemian-style hair accessories.

Fragrance

• Potpourri: Create a fragrant blend by combining dried petals, herbs, and spices like rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves. Place the potpourri in a decorative bowl or sachet to gently infuse your living spaces with a natural aroma.
• Bath bombs: Elevate your self-care routine by adding dried petals to homemade bath bombs. Combine with ingredients like Epsom salt, baking soda, and essential oils for a luxurious experience.
• Perfume: Making your own perfume allows you to customize the scent. Soak old roses in vodka and distilled water, and you'll have an easy homemade perfume in just a few days.
• Scented sachets: Gather fragrant blooms like lavender or rose petals and place them in small fabric bags. You can also add dried herbs or essential oils for extra fragrance. These sachets are perfect for freshening up closets and drawers.

Frequently asked questions