Dried Flowers - Microwaved

Eleven Steps to Microwave-Dried Flowers

By Debbi Miller Gutierrez

Air drying flowers can take a week or more, but using the microwave takes only a few minutes. In addition to being quick and easy, microwave-dried flowers look fresher and last longer. All you will need is a microwave-safe bowl or deep dish, a fresh flower, a drying agent, a small paint or pastry brush, a spoon, and a cup of water.

1. Choose a flower to dry. Be sure to pick a fresh vibrant flower since if it is already past its prime, your flower will continue to turn brown. Snip the flower stem to a one-half inch length.

2. Select the proper container—a microwave-safe bowl or deep dish.  If you are drying more than one item or have an especially large flower, use a casserole dish.

3. Choose a drying agent. Cat litter is least expensive and easiest to find, but silica gel (found at a hobby or art supply store) works best. If you happen to have borax and corn meal lying around, you can make a mixture of equal parts to use as a drying agent.

4. Spread your drying agent to a one-half inch thickness in the bottom of the container.

5. Place your flower in the drying agent bed with the bloom side up and gently cover your flower with easy spoonings of more drying agent.  Be very careful not to crush the flower or bend the petals into unnatural positions.  Make sure the flower is completely covered.

6. Put the uncovered bowl into the microwave. Place a cup of water in a separate microwave-safe container next to the bowl. The water will keep the flower from becoming too dry.

7. Microwave on high for one t three minutes for smaller flowers, five to six minutes for larger flowers.  You will have to experiment to find the perfect amount of time.

8. Remove the flower container (with a pot holder if too warm) and let sit for at least 10 hours or overnight.

9. Brush the drying agent from the flower gently with a pastry or small paint brush.  Hold the flower by the stem and gently tap or turn to make sure the entire drying agent is removed. Retain the drying agent for next time.

10. When the flower is ready, fasten a floral stick or wire to the one-half inch stem.

11. Decorate!

Warning:  If you are using silica gel as your drying agent, be sure to keep it away from your pets. Many dogs find this substance tasty, but it can be dangerous if eaten.

Send flowers in Edmonton Alberta with Canada Floral Delivery. Order online for same day delivery across Canada.

 Edmonton's Premier Florist.