Morning glory flowers are known for their vibrant colors and unique shapes. These beautiful blooms can add charm to any garden. Drying morning glory flowers is a wonderful way to preserve their beauty for use in crafts, decorations, or potpourri. This article will provide a detailed guide on how to effectively dry morning glory flowers, ensuring that you maintain their color and structure.
Overview of Morning Glory Flowers
Morning glories belong to the Convolvulaceae family and are native to tropical and subtropical regions. These flowers are known for their funnel-shaped blooms that open in the morning and close in the afternoon. They come in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. Morning glories are often grown as climbing plants, making them popular for trellises and arbors.
Choosing the Right Time to Harvest
The first step in drying morning glory flowers is to choose the right time to harvest them. Morning glory flowers should be picked when they are fully open and fresh. This is typically in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day causes them to wilt. Look for flowers that are vibrant in color and free from blemishes or damage. Avoid flowers that are starting to fade or wilt, as they will not dry well.
Preparing the Flowers for Drying
Once you have harvested the morning glory flowers, it is essential to prepare them for drying. Start by gently removing any leaves or stems that are not needed. This helps to reduce moisture and allows for better airflow during the drying process. It is important to handle the flowers gently to avoid bruising or damaging them.
Methods for Drying Morning Glory Flowers
There are several effective methods for drying morning glory flowers. Each method has its advantages and can be chosen based on your preferences and available resources. Here are the most common methods:
Air Drying
Air drying is one of the simplest and most effective ways to dry morning glory flowers. To air dry the flowers, follow these steps:
Gather the flowers in small bunches. Tie the stems together with a string or rubber band.
Hang the bunches upside down in a cool, dark, and dry place. This helps to preserve the color and prevents direct sunlight from fading the flowers.
Ensure that there is good airflow around the flowers to prevent mold. A well-ventilated area, such as a closet or a shed, works well.
Allow the flowers to dry for about two to three weeks. Check them periodically for dryness. They are ready when they feel crisp to the touch and retain their shape.
Pressing
Pressing is another popular method for drying morning glory flowers. This technique is ideal if you want to create flat flowers for use in crafts or scrapbooking. Here is how to press morning glory flowers:
Select the flowers you want to press. Choose blooms that are flat and open.
Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or blotting paper.
Use a heavy book or a flower press to apply pressure to the flowers. Make sure the flowers are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Leave the flowers pressed for about one to two weeks. After this time, check for dryness. The flowers should be flat and dry to the touch.
Using a Food Dehydrator
A food dehydrator can also be an effective tool for drying morning glory flowers. This method allows for quicker drying while maintaining the flowers’ color and shape. Follow these steps to use a food dehydrator:
Prepare the flowers as previously described by removing excess leaves and stems.
Arrange the flowers in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Ensure they are not touching to allow for good airflow.
Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, around 95 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dry the flowers for about four to six hours, checking them periodically for dryness. They should be crisp and retain their shape when finished.
Storing Dried Morning Glory Flowers
Once the morning glory flowers are fully dried, it is important to store them properly to maintain their quality. Here are some tips for storing dried flowers:
Choose an airtight container to prevent moisture from entering. Glass jars, plastic containers, or sealable bags work well.
Store the dried flowers in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to light can fade their colors over time.
Label the containers with the date and type of flower for easy identification later.
Using Dried Morning Glory Flowers
Dried morning glory flowers can be used in various creative ways. They can be added to potpourri for a fragrant and colorful blend. You can also use them in floral arrangements, wreaths, or as decorative accents in crafts. Their vibrant colors and unique shapes make them a beautiful addition to any project.
Conclusion
Drying morning glory flowers is a rewarding process that allows you to preserve their beauty for future use. Whether you choose to air dry, press, or use a food dehydrator, each method offers unique benefits. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully dry morning glory flowers and enjoy their vibrant colors long after the growing season has ended. With proper care and storage, your dried morning glory flowers can be a delightful addition to your home decor or craft projects.
