Guide to Harvesting and Drying Flowers
General Information
Most flowers should be harvested when not quite in full bloom, especially those that are to be air-dried. Flowers should be picked at the peak of the afternoon heat on a bright dry day. A hot, dark attic or other dark, dry place is needed. Wire bag twists, string and wire coat hangers are helpful. To hold berries on twigs and branches, dip them in or brush them with clear shellac thinned with alcohol. To insure good color and quality in materials, strip off main leaves; tie materials in small bunches and tie to coat hangers. This allows for the free circulation of air. Hang in a dark, dry place. Zinnias, dahlias, strawflowers, daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums and globe amaranth should have the stems removed and a wire placed in the calyx before drying (see dahlias.)
