Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are beloved garden flowers known for their tall, striking spires and unique blooms. Preserving them allows their vibrant colors and architectural form to be incorporated into dried arrangements, wreaths, or crafts. Although their structure presents a challenge for preservation, several reliable techniques can be employed to capture their beauty long after the growing season has ended.
Harvesting and Preparing Snapdragons for Preservation
Harvesting success depends on selecting and preparing the blooms at the optimal moment. Snapdragons should be harvested when the spike is about one-third to half-open, meaning the lowest three to five florets have fully opened. Cutting them at this stage ensures the remaining buds will continue to open or hold their shape during drying. Harvest the flowers early in the morning after the dew has evaporated, when the stems are hydrated but the exterior is dry.
After cutting, the flowers require careful preparation. Strip all leaves from the lower two-thirds of the stem, as foliage tends to mold rather than dry cleanly. Gently remove any damaged or faded flowers near the base. Snapdragons respond to gravity (geotropic), so keep the cut stems upright in a tall container or bucket to prevent them from curving before drying begins.
Step-by-Step Guide to Air Drying
Air drying is the most traditional and accessible method. Gather the prepared snapdragon stems into small bundles of no more than four to six stems. Secure the stems tightly near the cut ends using a rubber band or natural twine. A rubber band is often preferable because it contracts as the stems shrink during drying. Keep the bundles small to ensure adequate air circulation around each flower head.
The ideal drying location must be dark, warm, dry, and well-ventilated, such as an unused closet or attic. Darkness minimizes the fading effect of light, helping the snapdragons retain their original color. Hang the small bundles upside down from a hook or drying rack, ensuring they are not touching walls or each other. Hanging them upside down helps the stems dry straight and prevents the flower heads from drooping.
The air-drying process typically takes between two to five weeks, depending on the environment’s humidity and temperature. Lower humidity and warmer temperatures accelerate moisture evaporation. The flowers are fully dried when the stems are rigid and the petals feel brittle and papery. Air drying may result in some loss of the snapdragon’s dimensional shape compared to other methods.
Using Desiccants and Pressing for Preservation
For superior color retention and preservation of the flower’s three-dimensional structure, using a desiccant like silica gel crystals is recommended. Silica gel rapidly absorbs moisture from the petals and stems, drastically reducing the drying time to a matter of days. To use this method, select an airtight container large enough for the spikes and pour a one-inch layer of silica gel crystals into the bottom.
Carefully lay the snapdragon spikes horizontally on the base layer, ensuring they do not touch. Gently pour the silica gel over the flowers, allowing the fine crystals to settle between the petals and support the structure. Continue pouring until the entire spike is completely buried within the desiccant. Seal the container tightly and allow the flowers to dry for approximately three to eight days before carefully excavating them.
If the blooms are intended for flat art, such as framed displays, pressing is an alternative. While the dimensional shape is lost, individual snapdragon florets can be detached and pressed. Place the blooms between sheets of absorbent paper, like newsprint, and insert them into a flower press or under heavy books. Pressing takes about one to two weeks and achieves a completely flattened profile.
Storage and Display of Dried Snapdragons
Once fully dried, snapdragons require careful handling and specific display conditions to ensure longevity. Dried flowers are highly susceptible to damage from moisture and light. They should be stored or displayed in a low-humidity environment away from direct sunlight. Exposure to ultraviolet rays causes colors to fade quickly, shifting vibrant hues to muted tones over time.
To protect the delicate petals from breakage and ambient moisture, apply a light misting of a clear, matte floral sealant or unscented hairspray. This thin protective coating stabilizes the structure and offers a barrier against humidity. For long-term display, a shadow box or glass-fronted case provides the best protection from dust and physical disturbance.
When arranging dried snapdragons, incorporate them into wreaths, protected vase displays, or enclosed potpourri mixtures. If storing them for later use, place them in an airtight container with a small packet of silica gel to absorb residual moisture. Keeping them in a cool, dark, and dry location ensures the blooms remain intact and their preserved colors last for several years.