Cornflowers are a total garden classic, but let’s be real: as cut flowers, they tend to lose that vibrant blue pop pretty quickly. If you want to keep that gorgeous color around for the long haul, drying them is definitely the way to go!
Timing is Everything
Here’s the deal: cornflowers look their absolute best when they’re soaking up the sun in a bright outdoor spot. If your goal is to dry them for decor, wait until mid-summer. That’s when the color is at its peak during the blooming season. However, if you’re planning on using them in the kitchen, you’ll want to harvest a bit earlier—around June. That’s when the petals are packed with the most beneficial nutrients.
How to Dry Your Flowers
Ready to get started? Drying cornflowers is super simple if you follow these steps:
- Snip the flowers along with their stems.
- Gather them into small bunches and tie them together.
- Hang the bundles upside down on a string or drying line.
- Pick a spot that is dark but has great air circulation.
- Attics or garden sheds are usually perfect for this.
The “dark spot” rule is key—direct sunlight will bleach the color right out of the petals. If you’re planning to use them for arrangements, keep your bundles small so the delicate blooms don’t get crushed.
Using Cornflowers in the Kitchen
Beyond looking pretty on a shelf, dried cornflowers are amazing for herbal teas or as a colorful garnish for salads. One of my favorite DIY tricks is mixing the dried petals with salt or sugar for a gourmet look. Try using a fine cane sugar or some fancy Fleur de Sel. Just toss them in a mortar and pestle and give them a quick grind together.
Plus, they aren’t just a pretty face—they have some traditional wellness benefits too. If you’re dealing with a headache, digestion issues, or just feeling a bit “meh,” try steeping a tablespoon of dried petals in about a cup of hot water for ten minutes. It’s a soothing little ritual that works wonders!
