How to dry lavender and preserve its fragrance all winter long. Get tips for air drying and using a dehydrator for beautiful results.

lovely way to dry lavender flowers after harvest

Every year, our lavender bush blesses me with so many beautiful blooms. I love catching a whiff of their fragrance on summer nights. I also love bringing their beauty indoors and preserving a touch of summer throughout the winter.

To preserve the beautiful blooms of your own lavender harvest, you have two great options: air drying or using a food dehydrator. For the traditional way (air drying), gather small bunches of lavender with long stems and tie them with a piece of twine. Then, hang them upside down in a dry location away from high humidity, like a dark room.

In a week or two, you’ll have fragrant dried lavender flowers perfect for sachets or culinary uses. If you’re looking for a quicker drying method for your lavender harvest, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a dehydrator. Let it dry until the buds are loose and the scent of lavender fills your home, making it smell like the happiest place on earth. Both methods will give you quality dried lavender, ready for crafts, floral arrangements, or simply enjoying its aromatic beauty for a long time.

If you’re wondering how to dry lavender for decorations or DIY projects, this post will guide you.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Capture the fragrance of summer nights: Learning how to dry lavender helps you keep that soothing summer fragrance alive, so you can bring it indoors and enjoy the calming scent all winter long.
Gateway to effortless home decor: It’s an easy way to create beautiful, natural decorations for your home. Whether you air dry it in a vase or use a dehydrator, the dried blooms add a cozy and elegant touch to any room.
Perfect for creative DIY projects: You’ll have a versatile ingredient for all your crafts, infusing natural beauty into your projects.

What You’ll Need

Scissors or garden shears
Dehydrator
Vase

Instructions

Harvest lavender just before the flowers begin to open. I was cutting it way too close this year, and as a result, some of the flowers fell off the stalks after drying. The right timing is very important.
Cut the lavender with plenty of stalks left.

Air Drying:

Arrange lavender stalks in a vase and allow them to dry. That’s how easy it is!
If you’re air drying a large amount, you can tie them together with string and hang them upside down to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Dehydrator:

Cut the lavender heads off the stalls
Arrange on dehydrator trays
Set for 5 hours at 55 °C (130 °F)

FAQ

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the top choice for drying due to its strong fragrance and sturdy flowers.
Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin) is also good for drying because of its robust scent and high oil content.
Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) has vibrant blooms but is less fragrant. While all can be dried successfully, English lavender is especially favored for its lasting aroma and quality. These three are some of the best lavender varieties for drying.

Air drying is the easiest—just hang lavender bundles upside down in a dry, well-ventilated spot and let it dry naturally. If you want quicker results, use a dehydrator instead; spread the lavender heads on the trays and set the temperature to for even drying. This method is great for drying lavender buds for various uses.

Oven drying is another option for small batches—lay the lavender on a baking sheet and put it in the oven at the lowest temperature. For an even faster drying process, you can use a microwave. This method involves placing lavender between paper towels and microwaving in short bursts. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. While all these methods work, air drying is the most traditional, with dehydrators and ovens offering faster alternatives. Oven drying can be a favorite way for those who need their lavender dried quickly.

You’ll know your lavender is fully dried when the stems feel brittle and the flowers crumble easily between your fingers. The color will fade a bit, but the fragrance will still be strong. If the stems are still soft or bend, the harvest needs a little more time to dry.

Yes, you can use dried lavender immediately for tea or other purposes as soon as it’s fully dried. Just make sure it’s completely dry to avoid any mold or spoilage. Once ready, you can use it for tea, baking, crafts, or any other projects you have in mind. You could even use it for making simple syrup or add it to loose buds for a fragrant touch.

There are a few safety things to keep in mind when drying lavender. Make sure the drying area has good airflow to prevent mold from forming. If you’re using a dehydrator or oven, keep the temperature low to avoid overheating and protect the lavender’s essential oils. Lastly, always use lavender that hasn’t been treated with pesticides or chemicals, especially if you plan to use it for tea or anything edible.

Yes, you can mix lavender with other herbs for tea and homemade drinks. Lavender pairs well with herbs like chamomile, mint, and rosemary. Just be sure to use the right proportions to balance the flavors and ensure the lavender complements rather than overpowers the other herbs.

Lavender has several medicinal uses. It’s commonly used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. Lavender’s scent can also improve sleep quality and help with insomnia. For digestive issues like bloating and gas, lavender may be helpful when used in teas or supplements.

Also, lavender essential oil can be applied to minor burns, insect bites, and headaches due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Be sure to check with a healthcare provider before using lavender for medicinal purposes, especially if you have health conditions or are pregnant.

Tips

1. Air drying tips:

Choose a dry, well-ventilated spot: For the best results, choose a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mold and ensure even drying.
Use a clean vase for air drying to avoid contamination. For larger amounts, tie lavender bundles with string, making sure they’re not packed too tightly to allow proper airflow.
Keep an eye out for mold by checking your lavender regularly. If you spot any, lower the humidity in the drying area or improve ventilation.

2. Dehydrator tips:

Arrange evenly: Spread lavender heads evenly on the dehydrator trays to ensure consistent drying and avoid overcrowding, which can hinder air circulation..
Set the right temperature: Stick to the recommended 55 °C (130 °F) to avoid overheating, which can damage the fragrance and color of the lavender.
Check for doneness: After 5 hours, check if the lavender is completely dry. It should be crumbly to the touch. If not, continue drying in 30-minute increments until ready.

3. Other tips:

Harvesting: Cut lavender stems in the late morning when the essential oils are at their peak and haven’t evaporated in the sun. Ensure the lavender is in full bloom for the best fragrance and color.
Drying whole sprays: If you prefer to dry whole lavender bunches, tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area. This method may take longer and is more susceptible to mold, so ensure good air circulation.
Air circulation: For even drying, space out the lavender stems or bunches to allow air to circulate around them. You might use a drying rack or hang them in a dry, airy room.
Turning: If laying lavender out flat on a tray or basket, turn the lavender every 12 hours to ensure even drying and prevent mold.
Checking for dryness: Lavender is ready when the stems snap easily and the buds crumble between your fingers. Ensure all parts are completely dry before storing to avoid mold.
Mixing: Once dried, you can mix lavender buds with other herbs like chamomile for unique tea blends or aromatic sachets.
Hanging air dryers: For the best results, use hanging air dryers or racks that allow the lavender to dry evenly and maintain its fragrance.

Storage

Dried lavender can last for about 1 to 3 years if stored properly. Its fragrance will be strongest in the first year and may gradually fade over time. To maximize its shelf life, keep it in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container away from sunlight and moisture. Here’s what you need to know about storing this fragrant gift from nature:

Airtight containers: Store dried lavender in clean, airtight glass jars or containers. Ensure they are completely dry before sealing to prevent any moisture from causing mold.
Cool, dark place: Keep the containers in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps preserve the lavender’s color and fragrance.
Vacuum-sealed bags: For long-term storage, use vacuum-sealed or food saver bags to remove excess air and maintain freshness. This method helps keep the lavender potent and aromatic.
Silica gel packs: Place silica gel packs or moisture absorbers in the containers to control any residual moisture. This keeps the lavender dry and free from clumping.
Freezer storage: If you live in a humid climate, consider storing dried lavender in the freezer in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to preserve its quality for extended periods.
Herb jars with tight lids: For smaller quantities, use herb jars with tight-fitting lids. These jars are designed to keep air and moisture out effectively.
Labeling: Label each container with the date and type of lavender. This helps track freshness and ensures you use it within its optimal timeframe.
Avoiding moisture: Keep lavender away from moisture sources like sinks or dishwashers. Excess moisture can lead to clumping and spoilage.
Fridge storage: If storing in a fridge, ensure the container is tightly sealed to avoid moisture and odor absorption from other foods.
Dark colored containers: Use dark-colored or opaque containers to protect lavender from light, which can degrade its color and scent over time.

Lovely Way to Dry Lavender Flowers after Harvest

How to dry lavender and preserve its fragrance all winter long. Get tips for air drying and using a dehydrator for beautiful results.

Materials

Scissors or garden shears
Dehydrator
Vase

Instructions

Harvest lavender just before the flowers begin to open. I was cutting it way too close this year, and as a result, some of the flowers fell off the stalks after drying. The right timing is very important.
Cut the lavender with plenty of stalks left.

Air Drying:

Arrange lavender stalks in a vase and allow them to dry. That’s how easy it is!
If you’re air drying a large amount, you can tie them together with string and hang them upside down to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Dehydrator:

Cut the lavender heads off the stalls
Arrange on dehydrator trays
Set for 5 hours at 55 °C (130 °F)

Notes

Tips for Drying Lavender

Air drying tips:

Choose a dry, well-ventilated spot: For the best results, choose a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mold and ensure even drying.
Use a clean vase for air drying to avoid contamination. For larger amounts, tie lavender bundles with string, making sure they’re not packed too tightly to allow proper airflow.
Keep an eye out for mold by checking your lavender regularly. If you spot any, lower the humidity in the drying area or improve ventilation.

Dehydrator tips:

Arrange evenly: Spread lavender heads evenly on the dehydrator trays to ensure consistent drying and avoid overcrowding, which can hinder air circulation..
Set the right temperature: Stick to the recommended 55 °C (130 °F) to avoid overheating, which can damage the fragrance and color of the lavender.
Check for doneness: After 5 hours, check if the lavender is completely dry. It should be crumbly to the touch. If not, continue drying in 30-minute increments until ready.

Other tips:

Harvesting: Cut lavender stems in the late morning when the essential oils are at their peak and haven't evaporated in the sun. Ensure the lavender is in full bloom for the best fragrance and color.

Drying whole sprays: If you prefer to dry whole lavender bunches, tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area. This method may take longer and is more susceptible to mold, so ensure good air circulation.

Air circulation: For even drying, space out the lavender stems or bunches to allow air to circulate around them. You might use a drying rack or hang them in a dry, airy room.

Turning: If laying lavender out flat on a tray or basket, turn the lavender every 12 hours to ensure even drying and prevent mold.

Checking for dryness: Lavender is ready when the stems snap easily and the buds crumble between your fingers. Ensure all parts are completely dry before storing to avoid mold.

Mixing: Once dried, you can mix lavender buds with other herbs like chamomile for unique tea blends or aromatic sachets.

Hanging air dryers: For the best results, use hanging air dryers or racks that allow the lavender to dry evenly and maintain its fragrance.

Storage

Dried lavender can last for about 1 to 3 years if stored properly. Its fragrance will be strongest in the first year and may gradually fade over time. To maximize its shelf life, keep it in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container away from sunlight and moisture. Here's what you need to know about storing this fragrant gift from nature:

Airtight containers: Store dried lavender in clean, airtight glass jars or containers. Ensure they are completely dry before sealing to prevent any moisture from causing mold.
Cool, dark place: Keep the containers in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps preserve the lavender’s color and fragrance.
Vacuum-sealed bags: For long-term storage, use vacuum-sealed or food saver bags to remove excess air and maintain freshness. This method helps keep the lavender potent and aromatic.
Silica gel packs: Place silica gel packs or moisture absorbers in the containers to control any residual moisture. This keeps the lavender dry and free from clumping.
Freezer storage: If you live in a humid climate, consider storing dried lavender in the freezer in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to preserve its quality for extended periods.
Herb jars with tight lids: For smaller quantities, use herb jars with tight-fitting lids. These jars are designed to keep air and moisture out effectively.
Labeling: Label each container with the date and type of lavender. This helps track freshness and ensures you use it within its optimal timeframe.
Avoiding moisture: Keep lavender away from moisture sources like sinks or dishwashers. Excess moisture can lead to clumping and spoilage.
Fridge storage: If storing in a fridge, ensure the container is tightly sealed to avoid moisture and odor absorption from other foods.
Dark colored containers: Use dark-colored or opaque containers to protect lavender from light, which can degrade its color and scent over time.