The Delicate Beauty of Dried Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley, with its dainty white bell-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance, is one of the most beloved spring flowers. But did you know that this flowering plant can also be dried and preserved for long-lasting indoor enjoyment? Dried lily of the valley is a charming way to keep the spirit of spring alive all year round.

Lily of the valley, scientifically known as Convallaria majalis, is a flowering plant native to cool, temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It gets its common name from the bell-like shape of its petite white flowers, which are arranged along slender arching stalks. Lily of the valley typically blooms in the spring, often at the same time as daffodils.

The flowers have a distinctive, sweet scent reminiscent of hyacinth or citrus. All parts of the lily of the valley plant are poisonous if ingested, due to the presence of cardiac glycosides. However, the plant has a long history of use in herbalism when applied externally.

Lily of the valley grows from an underground rhizome and spreads easily, making it a popular groundcover plant in shady gardens The foliage is comprised of oval green leaves about 3-6 inches long that emerge near the base of the plant A mature lily of the valley may have 15 or more arching flower stalks that can reach 8-12 inches in height.

Why Dry Lily of the Valley?

Drying flowers like lily of the valley is a time-honored craft that allows you to preserve the beauty of blooms for months or even years after they are cut. Dried flowers retain much of their color, shape, and texture.

There are several advantages to drying lily of the valley rather than keeping them fresh

• Dried flowers last for 1-3 years if stored properly, compared to just 1-2 weeks for fresh cut flowers.

• The sweet scent remains fairly intense in dried lily of the valley.

• Crafts made with dried lily of the valley, like wreaths and potpourri, can be enjoyed long after spring has ended.

• Dried flowers are perfect for interior design in any season. Their neutral colors work year-round.

• Makes a meaningful handmade gift that evokes springtime.

How to Dry Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley is one of the easiest flowers to dry naturally using air drying or desiccation. The small, dainty blossoms retain their shape beautifully through the drying process. Here are some methods for successfully drying lily of the valley flowers at home:

Air Drying

Air drying takes advantage of natural airflow to slowly remove moisture from the blooms over 1-3 weeks. To air dry lily of the valley:

• Cut flower stalks when the lowest blossoms have opened fully. Leave several inches of stem.

• Gather 5-10 stems together and secure upright with a rubber band. Trim stems evenly.

• Hang the stems upside down in a warm, dry, dark place with good air circulation.

• The flowers will dry best at temperatures between 60-75°F.

• Check periodically until completely dry. Blossoms should be fragile but retain color.

Desiccation

For quicker drying, desiccation uses a dessicant like sand, borax, or silica gel. To dry lily of the valley this way:

• Prepare the flowers as described for air drying.

• Get a shallow airtight container with a lid. Glass or plastic works well.

• Add a 1-2 inch layer of borax or silica gel beads to the container.

• Lay the flower stems in the dessicant so blossoms don’t touch.

• Seal the lid and let sit for 1-2 weeks, checking periodically.

• When fully dry, remove any remaining dust or granules.

Pressing

Pressing between heavy books is another option for drying lily of the valley.

• Place flower stalks between layers of paper or cloth towel.

• Put the layers between two heavy books. Weight with additional books if needed.

• Allow 3-4 weeks to fully dry, replacing paper if moisture is absorbed. Check for dryness periodically.

What to Do with Dried Lily of the Valley

The artistic possibilities are endless when working with dried lily of the valley blooms! Here are some crafts and projects to spark your creativity:

• Create stunning table centerpieces by combining dried lily of the valley with other dried flowers in a vase.

• Make fragrant sachets or potpourri by mixing dried petals with dried herbs like lavender and rosemary.

• Line a glass lamp base with florist’s tape and insert dried stems for an elegant lamp display.

• Weave dried stems into freestanding wreaths, swags, or wall arrangements.

• Place a bouquet of dried lily of the valley in a large glass bottle or vase for rustic farmhouse decor.

• Glue dried blossoms onto candle holders, mirrors, boxes, and other home accessories.

• Add whimsy and texture to neutral room decor by clustering dry flowers in empty teacups, terrariums, or birdcages.

• Craft handmade cards, invitations, tags, and gift wrap using pressed or dried lily of the valley.

• Display dried flowers in shadow boxes, glass cloches, or acrylic frames. Group by color for impact.

Storing Dried Lily of the Valley

To extend the lifespan of your dried arrangements, proper storage is key. Follow these tips:

• Store fully dried flowers out of direct sunlight in a dark, cool location. An airtight container is ideal for storage.

• Add desiccant packs to the storage container to absorb excess moisture and prevent rotting.

• Check dried flowers every 1-2 months and discard any that show signs of mold or deterioration.

• Dusting or gently vacuuming dried flowers can help remove dust and debris.

• Avoid extreme swings in temperature or humidity which can cause moisture damage over time.

With proper care, dried lily of the valley can brighten your living spaces for 1-3 years, lending natural charm and a touch of springtime year-round. Their delicate white blossoms evoke renewal and hope. If you adore this flower, give drying a try. It’s an easy craft that yields lasting decor and lovely gifts from your garden.