Drying carnations is an excellent way to preserve their beauty for long-term enjoyment. This guide covers how to dry carnations using seven distinct methods, each suited to specific needs and desired results. 

Whether through air drying for natural charm, pressing for flat crafts, or using silica gel for vibrant preservation, these techniques help retain the flower’s colour and shape. Dried carnations offer versatile uses, from home decor to unique DIY projects. 

Explore the methods below to find one that matches your vision, turning carnations into timeless keepsakes perfect for crafts and decor.

1. Using An Oven

Oven-drying carnations is an effective method for quickly preserving these blooms. Unlike air drying, which can take weeks, using an oven offers a time-efficient alternative, making it ideal for those needing dried flowers in a shorter time frame. 

The oven-drying process also allows you to dry multiple carnations at once, which is useful for creating a substantial dried flower arrangement.

This approach requires careful preparation and monitoring to prevent damage, so let’s go through it step-by-step:

1. Setting Up the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to its lowest possible setting, typically between 65-80°C (150-175°F). A lower temperature helps to dry the carnations slowly, reducing the risk of over-drying or burning. Most conventional ovens won’t go lower than this range, so keep a close eye on the flowers during the process.
2. Preparing the Carnations and Tray: Begin by removing any excess leaves and trimming the stems to a manageable length. Spread the carnations in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a baking rack, ensuring that they’re not overlapping. This spacing allows for better airflow, helping the flowers dry evenly.
3. Placing in the Oven: Position the tray in the centre of the oven to allow for even drying. Keep the oven door slightly ajar (you can use a wooden spoon or heat-safe object to prop it open). This slight opening lets moisture escape and helps regulate the temperature, essential for delicate items like carnations.
4. Monitoring the Drying Process: Check the carnations every 30 minutes to an hour, depending on their size and moisture level. Carnations typically take about 1-2 hours to dry completely, but it’s crucial to check frequently as drying times can vary. When the petals feel papery and the stems brittle, they’re ready. Be cautious of signs of over-drying, such as browning or a burnt smell, as this can indicate the flowers are exposed to too much heat.

2. Desiccant Method

Drying carnations using the desiccant method is an excellent way to preserve their vibrant colours and delicate form. This method is particularly effective because it draws moisture out of the flowers without altering their shape or hue too much. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully dry carnations with a desiccant.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fresh carnations
• Silica gel or another desiccant (available at craft stores or online)
• An airtight container (such as a plastic or glass container with a secure lid)
• Small scissors or pruning shears
• Paintbrush or soft makeup brush (optional)
• Gloves (to handle silica gel safely)

Steps-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Flowers and Container: Trim the carnations’ stems to about 2-3 inches and remove any leaves. Spread a 1-2 inch layer of silica gel in the bottom of an airtight container.
2. Position the Carnations: Place the carnations upright or flat on the silica gel, depending on how you want the flowers to look when dried. Be gentle to maintain their shape.
3. Cover the Flowers: Carefully pour silica gel over the flowers until fully covered, ensuring the gel fills the spaces between petals. Seal the container tightly.
4. Let the Flowers Dry: Store the sealed container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight for 5-7 days. Larger flowers may take up to 10 days.
5. Uncover and Finish: Gently remove the flowers from the silica gel and brush off any remaining particles. Store them in a sealed container or display as desired.

3. Using A Food Dehydrator

Using a food dehydrator for drying carnations is a fantastic method, particularly for those who want more control over the drying process. Unlike other methods that rely on ambient conditions, a food dehydrator provides a controlled environment where the temperature and air circulation can be precisely managed. 

This results in uniform drying, helping to retain the shape and colour of the carnations more consistently. The ability to set a lower, steady temperature also reduces the risk of over-drying or scorching, making this an ideal option for achieving professional-quality dried flowers in a shorter time.

1. Preparing and Placing the Carnations on Dehydrator Trays: Start by trimming the carnation stems to fit comfortably on the dehydrator trays. Remove any extra leaves from the stems, as these can trap moisture and prolong the drying time. Place the carnations on the trays in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between each flower to allow for optimal airflow around them. Most food dehydrators allow stacking multiple trays, which is a great advantage if you’re drying a larger batch.
2. Setting the Temperature and Monitoring Drying: Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, ideally around 38-46°C (100-115°F), as higher temperatures can cause the petals to become brittle and lose colour. The drying time can vary, but carnations generally take between 12 to 24 hours to dry thoroughly. Check the flowers every few hours by gently pressing on the petals; when they feel dry and papery, they’re ready to be removed.
3. Checking for Dryness and Storing Dried Carnations: Once the carnations are dry, remove them from the dehydrator and let them cool at room temperature. For long-term storage, place the dried flowers in an airtight container, keeping them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Storing them with a small packet of silica gel can help absorb any residual moisture, preserving the flowers' appearance for months or even years.

4. Hang Drying

Hang drying is one of the oldest and simplest methods for preserving flowers, including carnations. It’s an effective way to dry carnations while maintaining their natural beauty and charm. By removing moisture slowly, this method helps preserve the flowers' shape and colour for decorative purposes.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fresh carnations
• Scissors or pruning shears
• String, twine, or rubber bands
• Hanger or drying rack
• A cool, dark, and dry space with good ventilation

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Carnations:
• Choose fresh, healthy carnations with no signs of wilting or damage.
• Trim the stems to your desired length, ensuring they are long enough for tying. Remove excess leaves to promote even drying and avoid mould growth.
2. Bundle the Flowers:
• Gather 3-5 carnations into small bundles. Grouping them in smaller bunches allows better airflow, ensuring uniform drying.
• Secure the stems together using string, twine, or a rubber band. Make sure the flowers are tightly secured but not crushed.
3. Hang the Flowers:
• Attach the bundles upside down to a hanger, drying rack, or hook. Position the flowers so that they do not touch each other or any surfaces to ensure proper airflow.
• Place the hanger or rack in a cool, dark, and dry space, such as a closet, basement, or attic. Darkness helps preserve the flowers' colours, while good ventilation prevents moisture build-up.
4. Allow Time to Dry:
• Leave the carnations hanging undisturbed for 2-3 weeks. The drying time may vary depending on the environment's humidity and temperature.
• Check the flowers occasionally to ensure they are drying evenly and there are no signs of mould.
5. Finish and Store:
• Once the carnations feel dry and crisp to the touch, carefully remove them from the hanger.
• Store the dried flowers in an airtight container or display them in arrangements, crafts, or decorative pieces.

5. Water Vase Drying

Water vase drying is a natural and straightforward method to dry carnations while retaining some of their natural beauty and structure. This technique allows the flowers to dry gradually as the water in the vase evaporates. It is especially useful for those who prefer a hands-off approach to flower preservation.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fresh carnations
• A clean vase
• A small amount of water (about 1-2 inches)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose Fresh Carnations:
• Select carnations that are in full bloom but free from damage or wilting. Fresh, healthy flowers dry more effectively and retain their shape better.
2. Prepare the Flowers:
• Trim the stems of the carnations at an angle using scissors or pruning shears. This improves water absorption during the drying process.
• Remove any leaves from the lower part of the stems to prevent them from sitting in water and rotting.
3. Set Up the Vase:
• Fill a clean vase with about 1-2 inches of water. The idea is to provide just enough water for a gradual drying process without overhydrating the flowers.
4. Place the Flowers in the Vase:
• Arrange the carnations in the vase so that they stand upright. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can hinder proper air circulation and drying.
5. Allow the Water to Evaporate:
• Place the vase in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
• Over the course of 1-2 weeks, the water will evaporate, and the carnations will gradually dry out. The petals will become papery, and the flowers will retain much of their original shape.

Conclusion About Ways To Dry Carnation Flowers

Preserving carnations opens up an array of creative possibilities, whether you choose air drying, pressing, resin, or silica gel for their unique results. Each technique discussed – from the slow simplicity of air drying to the precise preservation of resin – offers a unique way to enjoy carnations long after they’re fresh. 

By experimenting with these methods, you can find one that suits both your skill level and the intended use, whether that’s in jewellery, home decor, or floral arrangements.

With dried carnations, you have endless ways to create personalised keepsakes or add a lasting floral touch to any project. So why not give it a try? Preserve a few carnations and see how their colours and shapes transform over time, adding a beautiful, natural element to your space.

And when you’re ready for fresh, high-quality flowers, contact Windflower Florist. As one of Singapore’s premier florists, we pride ourselves on delivering only the freshest flowers, with each bouquet crafted daily to meet the highest standards. 

When you choose Windflower Florist, you’re not only selecting stunning arrangements but also a commitment to excellence and care. 

Shop with the best preserve and fresh flowers in Singapore and experience our same-day flower delivery service. With just a few clicks, let us handle your gifting needs and experience our unmatched expertise firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drying Carnation Flowers

How Long Does It Take To Dry Carnations With Different Methods?

Drying carnations can vary greatly in duration depending on the method used. Air drying typically takes 2-3 weeks, as the flowers need to lose moisture gradually in a cool, dark environment. 

Silica gel and microwave methods are faster, with silica gel taking 5-7 days in an airtight container and microwaving requiring only a few minutes to a few hours depending on microwave strength and the flower's moisture level. 

Oven drying is a middle-ground option, usually taking 1-2 hours at low temperatures, though it needs close monitoring to prevent over-drying or scorching.

What Are Common Mistakes To Avoid When Drying Carnations?

A common mistake when drying carnations is exposing them to direct sunlight, which can cause the flowers to fade quickly. Overcrowding flowers, especially in methods like air drying or silica gel, leads to uneven drying and potentially mould growth. 

Lastly, using too high of a temperature, particularly in microwave or oven drying, can lead to scorching or brittleness, so always opt for lower, slow-drying settings and check frequently to avoid damage.

Can Dried Carnations Be Dyed Or Coloured After Drying?

Yes, dried carnations can be dyed or coloured to enhance their appearance. Floral sprays or water-based dyes are ideal for adding subtle colour while preserving the flower’s texture. 

Alternatively, acrylic sprays and even food colouring solutions can be used, but it's essential to apply these carefully to avoid saturating the petals, which may lead to a stiff or unnatural appearance.

What’s The Best Way To Store Dried Carnations To Ensure They Last?

To maximise the lifespan of dried carnations, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as light can fade the colours. Airtight containers or sealed bags help protect against humidity, which can cause mould or softening. 

Adding silica gel packets to the storage container is a great way to absorb any excess moisture and keep the flowers looking fresh and vibrant for months or even years.

Is It Possible To Preserve A Whole Bouquet Of Carnations At Once?

Yes, a whole bouquet can be preserved, though it requires careful spacing to ensure even drying for each flower. Using air drying or silica gel in an airtight container works well for bouquets, allowing each bloom to maintain its colour and shape. 

If drying in a dehydrator, microwave, or oven, it’s recommended to space out individual flowers to allow even airflow and avoid overlapping, as this can trap moisture and lead to mould or incomplete drying.