Not only do you place lavender plants in your backyard, it not only attracts pollinators, but also effectively avoids pests.
Prominent for its visual appeal, lavender has immense uses in aromatherapy.
It cannot relax your mind like the scent of lavender flowers.
It blooms in the summer, but if you know how to efficiently dry fresh lavender, you can enjoy the harvest year-round.
Drying fresh lavender helps preserve its aroma, color and natural oils. And you don’t have to worry about mold or rot.
To efficiently dry lavender, it is essential to harvest the lavender in the right way.
This is because the lavender stems just before the buds fully open are the most powerful oil.
Collect them into small bundles, tie them with strings or rubber bands, and hang them upside down in a dry, dark, well-ventilated area. This method helps to retain both the colour and the scent, and usually takes about two weeks for the lavender to dry completely.
Air drying is the most traditional and effective, especially for large bundles. If time is running out, you can use a dehydrating agent set at a low temperature (approximately 95-104F) that will quickly dry out the buds without damaging the oil.
Another option is to dry your oven. Spread the flowers on a baking tray, heat them at the lowest setting, and open the door slightly to allow moisture to escape. However, this method requires close monitoring to prevent overheating or loss of scent.
Let’s dig deeper into when and how to harvest lavender, the best ways to dry it, and the clever ways to use it after it’s dry.
Also Read: 19 Best Lavender Companion Plants for Growing in the Garden
When do you harvest lavender?
When harvested at the right time, the aroma, colour and oil content all make a difference.
The best time to harvest is when about 40-50% of the buds on each stem are open. The flowers are fragrant the most just before they are in full bloom. This is when the essential oil content is at its peak.
What to see:
The packed purple buds at the top, open flowers near the base – this is ideal. If most buds are open or falling, the plant is too mature and easily loses the buds after dryness. Avoid harvesting immediately after rain or dew. Moisture increases the risk of mold.
Best time:
Harvest in the morning after dew, before the sun gets too intense. This helps to retain the natural oils and aroma and can evaporate in the heat of a hot afternoon.
If you are unsure, run a simple snap test. Choose the stem, crush the buds between the fingers, and release the strong lavender scent, ready.
How to harvest lavender flowers?
Harvest is more than just cuttings. How you do that will affect the plant’s regrowth and drying process.
Choose mature stems with primarily closed buds. Use clean, sharp scissors or puller. A dull tool can crush the stems and damage the plant. Stems cut 2-3 inches above the woody part of the plant. Avoid cutting into old wood as it does not regrow well. Collect the lavender stems into small neat bunches as you go. This saves time when preparing. If you plan to hang a bunch, peel off the lower leaves. This prevents moisture buildup and mold.
If you are not harvesting shrubs, leave some flowering stems on the plant for bees and other pollinators.
Also Read: How to Propagate Lavender Plants from Cuts?
How to prepare lavender to dry?
Once you have a fresh lavender bundle, prepare them properly to ensure a clean, moldless drying process.
What should this do:
Sorting and Inspection: Discard damaged, discolored, or insect-filled stems. Group into small bundles (10-15 stems are the largest) so that the air circulates through the flowers. Securely secure with a string or rubber band. When the lavender dries, the stems shrink. Trim the edges to create bundles if necessary. This makes hanging easier and makes it look rough.
If you are planning to collect flower buds after drying (for sachets, tea, or cooking), don’t tie the bunch too closely near the flowers.
How to dry fresh lavender – 3 ways
There are several effective ways to dry out lavender, and the method you choose depends on the available space, tools and timeline.
What is the best way?
Air drying is the most recommended method of hanging down.
Naturally preserves colour and scent. No electricity or equipment is required. You can dry large batches at once.
But it also covers faster options such as dehydration and drying trays. This is useful when spaces and weather don’t cooperate.
1. Air-Dried Lavender (Traditional and Best Way)
Air drying is the most traditional and widely used method of storing lavender. It is simple, no cost, and works especially well if you have good size harvest and some patience. This method allows the lavender to dry naturally and keep it intact when properly done with most of its aroma and vibrant colour.
Harvest at the right stage: Choose a flavender and choose when about half of the flower buds are open. This is when essential oils are at their peak. Morning is best. The dew has dried, but the sun is too strong before it dries. Stem Bundle: Collect small bundles of lavender stems. 10-15 per bundle is ideal. Securely secure with strings, strings or rubber bands. The stems will shrink as they dry, so make sure the bundle is snug. Hanging Upside Down: Choose a dry, dark, well-ventilated space, such as a closet, attic, or covered porch. Hang the bundle upside down from a hook, claw, or hanger of clothes. Turning them upside down will help to preserve their straight shape and prevent mold. Avoid sunlight and moisture: Direct sunlight bleachs the color and weakens the scent. Humidity can cause mildew and slow dryness. If necessary, use a nearby fan to continue to circulate the air. Let’s make time: Drying usually takes about 7-14 days depending on air conditions. When the stems snap easily and the buds feel dry and crisp, you will see that the lavender is ready. Store and enjoy: Once completely dry, gently peel the buds from the stems or store the whole thing in an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place to maintain the scent and color.
Air drying may take a little longer, but it is low-efferent and perfect for those who want a natural, hassle-free way to store fresh lavender.
Check this: Avoid cultivation mistakes of 12 common lavender plants
2. Dried lavender in a dehydrator
Using a dehydrator is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to dry out the lavender while retaining its scent and color. It is especially useful if you live in a damp climate or want to avoid waiting a few weeks for the air to dry out.
Clean the stems: Gently rinse the lavender under cold water to remove any dust and insects. Dry thoroughly with a clean or paper towel. Preparing the Dehydrator: If you are using a small tray, you can maintain the entire stem or peel off the buds. Spread the lavender over a single layer of dehydrator tray without overlapping to allow for proper airflow. Set the dehydrator temperature: Adjust the dehydrator to a low temperature: 95°F to 104°F. Avoid higher temperatures as they can reduce the essential oil content. Dry the lavender: Dry for 1.5-3 hours. Drying time depends on the amount of moisture in the plant and the dehydrator model. Please check it out once in a while. Check Donnes: The stems are brittle and easily break, and the lavender is completely dry. The buds feel crispy and easily come off when rubbed between your fingers. Cool and Store: Cool dry lavender completely. Store in a light jar or paper bag away from light and moisture to preserve its scent and color.
This method helps quickly preserve the calm scent of lavender and lovely purple shades for long-term use.
3. Tray or flat drying method
Tray or flat drying is a simple and natural way to dry lavender without the need for special equipment.
It works well if you want to keep the aroma and colour of the flowers gently. This method is perfect for those living in a dry climate or those who have access to warm, ventilated indoor spaces.
Harvest and Cleanliness: Cut the lavender stems when the buds are almost closed but have a fragrance. Gently shake or rinse to remove any dirt and insects. Dry with a soft cloth or paper towel. Prepare the dry surface: use a clean tray, screen, or shallow cardboard box lined with parchment or paper towels. If available, make sure that the surface, such as a mesh or slot tray, allows air circulation below. Place the lavender: Spread the lavender stems or spread the buds in a single layer on a tray. Avoid stacking or overlapping. This is because it can cause uneven drying and mold. Please choose the right location. Place the tray in a warm, dry, dark area. This could be a closet, attic, or an unused room. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the loss of color and essential oils. Dry naturally: Keep lavender away from the way for 5-10 days depending on humidity and air circulation. Mix gently every few days or allow to dry evenly. Drying Test: Lavender is ready when the stem snaps easily and the buds collapse slightly under pressure. Store properly: Transfer dried buds or stems to an airtight jar or sealed bag. Keep them in a cool, dark place to preserve their scent and quality.
Drying trays is a great way to dry lavender because it is not costly, low maintenance, and not in a hurry, and is a great way to dry out lavender.
Also Read: How to Raise Celosia?
How to properly store dried lavender?
Once the lavender is dry, it’s time to store the lavender to last as long as possible (usually 1-3 years depending on use).
Long-lasting Lavender Tips:
Use an airtight container: A narrow lid, vacuum-adhesive bag, or glass jar with cans will work well. Avoid sunlight: Store in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry to preserve its scent and color. Avoid Humidity: Even a little moisture can make dry lavender molds. Label the jar: Include harvest date and type (such as English or French lavender).
If the buds are separated from the stem:
Gently rub the dried flowers between your fingers and roll them onto a towel to let them sprout. Store buds in a small sealed pouch or spice jar.
To add a scent, refresh the dry lavender by adding one or two lavender essential oils to the container.
How to use dried lavender?
There are beautifully dried batches of lavender, so here are some creative ways to use them.
Home Fragrance:
Make a lavender bag in your closet, drawer, or under your pillow. Use in potpourri bowls with rose petals, herbs or spices. Fill in small fabric pouches or eye masks for sleep and relaxation.
Crafts and Decorations:
Use as a wreath, bouquet, or part of a dried flower arrangement. Put your gift wrap or cards in and prepare a lovely aromatic touch. Add to your homemade candles, soaps and scrubs.
Cooking Use:
The lavender in the dish can be enjoyed with the flavors of cookies, bread, jelly and syrup. Add to herbal tea blends of chamomile, mint or lemon balm. Mix the dried buds with the granules and leave for a week to make lavender sugar or salt.
Note: Use only organic chemical-free lavender when cooking or drinking.
Naturopathy and bath products:
Mix it in bath salt, bath bomb or body oil for a relaxing soak. Use as a DIY skin ointment or balm. Make your own lavender-infused oil for massage and hair care.
Bonus Tip: How to determine if lavender is completely dry
The lavender is completely dry.
The stems break nicely (not bent). The buds feel crispy and papery. The scent is strong and concentrated.
If it still has a little flexibility or smells like “green”, let it dry for a long time.
Conclusion
Drying fresh lavender is more than just a way to store plants. This is a way to capture the essence of summer and enjoy its beauty and fragrance all year round.
Whether you decorate your home, create calm crafts, or blend your own tea, dried lavender adds charm, tranquility and usefulness to your everyday life.
Take a little care about harvesting and drying, you will have a beautiful lavender ready for any project you choose, or a moment of peace.
Computer Science Alumnus Khaja Moinuddin is delighted with gardening and homestead. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening and composting
