Lavender Tips

To ensure the freshness and longevity of your fresh lavender, follow these simple care instructions:

1. Trim the Stems: Upon receiving your fresh lavender, trim the stems at a diagonal angle. This will help the lavender absorb water more efficiently.
2. Select a Suitable Vase: Choose a clean vase that is tall enough to support the length of the lavender stems. Fill the vase with cool water, but ensure that the water level does not exceed 1 inch in depth.
3. Placement: Place the fresh lavender in the vase, ensuring that all stems are submerged in water but not fully immersed. The water should cover just the bottom of the stems.
4. Change the Water Daily: To maintain freshness, change the water in the vase every day. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the lavender hydrated.
5. Use Floral Food (if available): If you have floral food available, add it to the water according to the package instructions. Floral food contains nutrients that can extend the life of your fresh lavender.

By following these care instructions, you can enjoy your fresh lavender for 5 to 7 days, filling your space with its delightful fragrance and beauty.

To dry lavender for long-lasting use, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the Stems: Start by cutting off the bottom of the lavender stems, removing any parts that have been submerged in water. This ensures that only fresh, intact stems are used for drying.
2. Bundle the Lavender: Gather a bunch of lavender stems, typically around 10-15 stems per bundle, depending on their size. Tie the stems together at the base using a piece of string or a rubber band. Make sure the bundle is secure to prevent the lavender from falling out.
3. Hang Upside Down: Find a dry, dark room with good airflow for the drying process. Ideally, hang the lavender bundle upside down from a hook or a clothesline. Hanging the lavender upside down allows for better air circulation and helps maintain the shape of the flowers.
4. Ensure Darkness: It's important to dry lavender in a dark environment to help preserve its color and aroma. Direct sunlight can cause the flowers to fade and lose their fragrance.
5. Patience is Key: Allow the lavender to air dry naturally in the dark room. Depending on the humidity levels and airflow, it may take around a week or more for the lavender to dry completely. Check periodically to ensure the flowers are drying evenly and haven't developed any mold or mildew.
6. Test for Dryness: Once the lavender feels dry to the touch and the stems are stiff, it's ready to be removed from the drying location. The flowers should retain their color and fragrance when fully dried.
7. Store Properly: After drying, store the lavender in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can keep the dried lavender as whole bundles or remove the flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container for future use in sachets, potpourri, or other crafts.

By following these instructions, you can successfully dry lavender to enjoy its beauty and fragrance for years to come.