How to cure dried lavender

Lavender is a versatile herb known for its enchanting fragrance and beautiful blooms. Growing in your garden can bring charm and serenity to your outdoor space. Once you’ve harvested your precious lavender, you may wonder how to properly dry and preserve it. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of curing lavender so that you can enjoy its benefits for years to come.

1. Harvesting:
The first step in curing dried lavender is harvesting it at the right time. Lavender should be harvested when about half of the florets on each stem have opened. The ideal time to harvest is in the morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is directly overhead. Cut the stems with a sharp knife or garden shears, leaving about one-third of the plant intact. Be sure to leave enough foliage for the plant to continue thriving.

2. Bundling:
After you’ve gathered your lavender, prepare it for drying by making small bundles. Group about 10 to 15 stems together, aligning the ends as evenly as possible. Use twine or a rubber band to secure the stems tightly, ensuring the bundle remains intact during the drying process.

3. Hanging:
Next, find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space to hang your lavender bundles. A dark room or closet is ideal to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the vibrant purple flowers to fade. Make sure the room has good airflow to prevent the lavender from developing mold or mildew. Hang the bundles upside down by attaching the twine or rubber band to a hook or peg. Leave enough space between the bundles to ensure proper air circulation.

4. Drying Time:
Lavender typically takes two to four weeks to fully dry, depending on the humidity of your environment. Check the bundles regularly to ensure they are drying properly and not developing any signs of moisture or decay. Gently touch the flowers to see if they feel crisp and dry. If they do, your lavender is ready for the next step. If not, give it more time to dry.

5. Removing Stems:
Once your lavender is completely dry, it’s time to remove the stems from the flower heads. You can do this by gently sliding your fingers from the top to the bottom of the stem, separating the flowers as you go. Alternatively, you can place the bundles inside a clean, dry pillowcase and roll them gently between your hands, allowing the dried flower heads to separate from the stems. Discard any discolored or damaged flowers and store only the highest quality blooms.

6. Storing:
To preserve the fragrance and color of your dried lavender, store it in airtight containers, such as glass jars or resealable bags. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place away from heat and humidity. Properly cured lavender can retain its qualities for up to two years.

Now that you know how to cure dried lavender, you can enjoy its wonderful scent in various ways. Use the dried flowers to make potpourri, sachets, or even homemade lavender oil. Add it to your bath for a relaxing experience or use it for cooking and baking to add a delicate flavor to your dishes. Regardless of how you choose to use dried lavender, be sure to take pleasure in the beauty and calming aroma it brings into your life.