How to Dry Flowers Quickly

Overview

Most flower drying methods take several days or weeks to complete. If you need to speed up your drying time, use the same appliance that will boil a cup of water in a matter of minutes: the microwave oven. The flowers will be dried and ready to use in a craft project within 12 to 24 hours. You will also need silica gel for drying flowers, which can be purchased at craft stores or online.

Step 1

Pour silica gel on the bottom of a microwave safe dish.

Step 2

Stand flower heads (stems first) in the silica gel or lay leaves on the silica gel.

Step 3

Cover (gently) the cuttings with the silica gel. Use some of the excess in the dish, or add more. Completely cover the cuttings with the silica gel.

Step 4

Set the dish and glass of water in the microwave oven, with the glass of water at the back. The glass should be microwave safe. The water helps prevent over drying.

Step 5

Close the microwave's door and cook for 45 seconds to 3 minutes on high. You will need to experiment to get the correct time for the flowers or foliage you are drying.

Step 6

Remove the dish from the microwave and allow it to set for 12 to 24 hours. The silica gel must be completely cooled before removing the flowers or foliage.