Do You Put Dried Lavender in Water? The Complete Guide

Dried lavender is a popular addition to flower arrangements and home decor for its pleasant fragrance and pretty purple blooms. But should you put those dried lavender stems in water? That’s a common question for those new to working with dried flowers. In this complete guide we’ll cover proper care and uses for dried lavender, when water is okay and creative ways to display lavender without submerging it.

How To Store Dried Lavender

The key to preserving dried lavender’s color, texture, and scent is to keep it dry. Exposure to water will cause the delicate blooms and foliage to become soggy, stained, and moldy. Here are some recommended storage methods:

• Place dried stems in a vase or bouquet without water. The stems don’t need hydration.
• Hang bundles of lavender upside down in a dark cabinet or closet to prevent dust buildup.
• Decant loose dried buds into an airtight glass jar kept in a cupboard. Add a silica gel packet to absorb moisture.
• For long-term storage, seal lavender in an airtight plastic bag with all air pressed out. Put in the freezer to preserve oils.

Using Dried Lavender Without Water

Luckily. there are many great ways to use dried lavender décor and crafts without submerging it in water

• Make mini sachets by tying small bundles with string. Place in drawers for fragrance.
• Sew buds into little cloth pouches for potpourri displays.
• Blend with sea salt or baking soda for scented bath products.
• Add to lotions, body scrubs, massage oils for aroma and natural color.
• Use dry stems for wreaths, pressed flowers, potpourri jars, lavender wands, etc.
• Mix into candles or soaps to provide fragrance without water contact.

When You Can Add Water

While dried lavender itself shouldn’t get wet, you can incorporate it into some watery projects with a bit of care:

• Make infused culinary lavender water by steeping then straining out buds.
• Add dried lavender to the water of foam flower arrangements. Avoid direct stem contact.
• Float buds on top of the water line in potpourri jars. Replace water weekly.

Storing Fresh Cut Lavender Bouquets

Fresh cut lavender from the garden or farm stands does require proper hydration. Follow these tips:

• Cut stem ends, strip leaves, and place in a vase with water reaching about 2 inches up stems.
• Refresh water every 2-3 days. Recut stem ends occasionally to improve water flow.
• Expect fresh lavender to last about 1-2 weeks in a vase with proper care.

Drying Fresh Cut Lavender

To dry fresh lavender yourself for long-lasting decor:

• Cut stems when flowers reach full bloom. Leave some stem length.
• Gather into small bundles, tie with rubber bands or string. Hang upside down in a warm, dry, dark place.
• Allow 1-2 weeks for thorough drying. Stems should be stiff, flowers intact.
• If desired, strip lavender buds from stems once fully dried and store in an airtight container.

Interesting Uses for Dried Lavender

Beyond traditional displays, dried lavender has many unique uses:

• Use dried stems as fire starters in fireplaces or campfires.
• Stuff small fabric sachets and tuck into stored clothing for fresh scent.
• Add to your bath for aroma, skincare benefits, and ambiance.
• Mix with lemon for a refreshing lavender-lemonade summer cocktail.
• Craft lavender wands from fresh buds and tie with ribbon when dried.

Answering Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about lavender and water:

How long does dried lavender last in a vase?

Up to 3 months if kept dry. High humidity causes faster deterioration.

What happens when you soak lavender in water?

Hot water draws out the oils, infusing the water with relaxing lavender fragrance.

Should you put dried flowers in water?

Most dried flowers will quickly deteriorate if placed in water. It’s best to keep them dry.

Can you revive dried lavender?

Unfortunately dried lavender cannot be revived if it becomes dried out or loses scent.

In Summary

The general rule of thumb is to keep dried lavender dry for best preservation. But with a bit of care, you can find creative ways to incorporate both dried and fresh lavender into water-based crafts and displays. Follow proper drying and storage methods, and enjoy this aromatic purple flower in all its forms!