After Harvesting Lavender | 7 Awesome Ways to Use Dried Lavender

Photo by rocknwool

After each lavender season, there comes a time to harvest this aromatic herb, known for its myriad of uses. But when is the optimal time to gather your lavender, and how should you utilize it? Let's explore the nuances of harvesting lavender and the various ways to utilize it once dried.

If you would like to dry your lavender, hang them upside down in a dark-dry place for them to air dry naturally. Read this article How to Dry Lavender .

7 Awesome Ways to Use Dried Lavender

1.  Arrange Fresh Lavender in a Vase or Air-Dry It for Future Use

After an enjoyable day of lavender picking, the next step is to decide how you'd like to preserve and utilize your beautiful lavender harvest. One option is to arrange a fresh bunch of lavender in a vase. This not only adds a lovely touch to your living space with its vibrant color and soothing fragrance but also allows you to enjoy its natural beauty for a while. If you prefer to keep the lavender dried for later use, hang them upside down in a dark, dry place to air-dry naturally. A helpful tip to maintain the freshness of your lavender bouquet is to add a very limited amount of water, approximately 1 cm in height, into your vase. Be sure to change the water regularly to prevent any mold from forming. Whether you opt for fresh lavender blooms or dried bundles, your lavender will continue to bring delight and relaxation to your surroundings.

2. A Relaxing Bedtime Ritual

Dried lavender makes an excellent addition to your bedtime routine. Fill a small sachet with dried lavender buds and place it inside your pillowcase or under your pillow. The calming aroma of lavender will help you relax and ease into a restful sleep. This natural remedy can be particularly beneficial if you struggle with insomnia or stress-related sleep issues.

3. Lavender-Infused Oil

Creating your own lavender-infused oil is a simple and rewarding DIY project. Combine dried lavender buds with your choice of carrier oil, such as sweet almond or jojoba oil, in a clean, glass container. Seal it and place the container in a sunny spot for a few weeks, shaking it gently every few days. The result is a fragrant oil that can be used for massages or as a moisturizer, imparting the soothing properties of lavender to your skin.

4. Culinary Delights

Dried lavender isn't just for aromatherapy; it can also enhance your culinary creations. English lavender is known for its edible properties, making it a delightful addition to both your kitchen and garden, serving a dual purpose for culinary and ornamental use. Use a small amount of dried lavender, like lavender-infused cookies or cakes, for a unique and delightful flavour. Remember that lavender can be quite potent, so use it sparingly to avoid an overwhelming taste. Bake a tray of Lavender Shortbread Cookies for your afternoon tea. They are buttery and lightly sweet, with a floral flavor and aroma from dried lavender. 

5. Natural Air Freshener

Keep your living spaces smelling fresh and pleasant with homemade lavender sachets. Place dried lavender buds in small cloth bags or organza pouches and tuck them into your drawers, closets, or even your car. These sachets will naturally repel moths and keep your surroundings infused with the delightful scent of lavender.

6. Lavender-Infused Cleaning

Dried lavender can also be used for natural cleaning. Mix dried lavender buds with baking soda and sprinkle this mixture on carpets before vacuuming. It not only adds a fresh scent but also helps to neutralize odors.

7. Creative Gift Wrapping Ideas

Enhance your lavender experience by adding handfuls of dried lavender buds and flowers to your gift wrapping. Not only will the soothing scent of lavender bring a smile to the recipient, but it will also keep the gift smelling lovely for weeks, making your thoughtful gesture extra special. Whether you're using dried lavender for culinary delights or as an aromatic touch in your gifting, it's a versatile and delightful addition to your daily life.

How to Put Dried Lavender in a Vase

When arranging dried lavender in a vase, there are several methods to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting display:

• Loose Arrangement: Gather a bunch of dried lavender stems and place them loosely in a vase. This casual arrangement allows the lavender to drape naturally, creating a relaxed and rustic look.
• Mix with Other Dried Flowers: Dried lavender pairs well with other dried flowers, such as roses, statice, or yarrow. Consider combining them for a timeless and elegant arrangement that will last for months.
• Add Decorative Accents: Enhance your dried lavender bouquet with decorative accents like ribbon, twine, or lace. These additions can complement the natural beauty of the lavender and add a personal touch to your arrangement.

By following these simple tips, you can create stunning floral displays that showcase the beauty and fragrance of dried lavender in any setting.

Dos and Don'ts of Dried Lavender

• Do store dried lavender in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its color and fragrance.
• Don't expose dried lavender to water or excessive moisture, as it can cause the flowers to become soggy and lose their aroma.
• Avoid storing dried lavender in areas prone to high humidity, as moisture can lead to mold growth and spoilage.
• Don't use dried lavender that appears discolored or has a musty smell, as it may indicate deterioration or contamination.
• Lastly, don't use dried lavender that has been treated with pesticides or chemicals, as it can pose health risks when consumed or used in skincare products.

FAQ

Question:

Why do my dried flowers get mouldy during winter, and how can I prevent and remove the mould?

Answer:

Why do dried flowers get mouldy during winter?

Dried flowers can get mouldy during winter due to increased humidity levels indoors. When heating systems are in use, they can create a warm environment, while cold weather outside increases indoor humidity. This combination provides ideal conditions for mold to develop on dried flowers, which are organic materials that can absorb moisture.

How can I prevent mould on dried flowers?

1. Control Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. This range helps prevent mold growth.
2. Proper Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation around your dried flowers. Avoid placing them in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.
3. Avoid Moist Areas: Keep dried flowers away from bathrooms, kitchens, or other areas with high moisture levels.
4. Use Silica Gel: Place silica gel packets near your dried flowers to absorb excess moisture from the air.

How can I remove mold from dried flowers?

1. Gentle Brushing: Use a soft brush to gently remove any visible mold from the dried flowers. Be careful not to damage the delicate petals and stems.
2. Dry Environment: Place the dried flowers in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation to ensure they dry out completely.
3. Alcohol Treatment: Mix equal parts of isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the dried flowers with this solution. Ensure you test it on a small area first to check for any discoloration or damage. The alcohol will help kill mold spores and evaporate quickly, reducing moisture.
4. Sunlight Exposure: Place the dried flowers in indirect sunlight for a few hours. Sunlight can help kill mold spores and reduce moisture content.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your dried flowers throughout the winter without worrying about mold.

After a Delightful Lavender-picking day, What's Next?

• Arrange fresh lavender in a vase or air-dry it for future use.
• Create a calming bedtime ritual with lavender sachets for better sleep.
• Craft your own lavender-infused oil for massages and moisturizing.
• Elevate your culinary creations with a hint of dried English lavender.
• Freshen up your living spaces with lavender sachets.
• Make a natural carpet freshener using dried lavender and baking soda.
• Add dried lavender to your gift wrapping for a fragrant surprise.

Want to know what summer activities our farm offers for your summer holiday?Please click Summer Activities.

If you are too far away from us but would like to get some dried flowers, click the below button to order online.