How to Preserve & Dry Calla Lilies

The calla lily — also known as Lily of the Nile — originates from the hot, humid regions of South Africa and can now be found throughout many other countries. Its simple, yet elegant appearance can hold its beauty even when dried and preserved. When it comes to drying calla lilies, the University of Kentucky Extension Service recommends the use of silica gel, as it speeds up the drying process and helps the flowers retain their color and shape.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Razor blade
• Sealable container
• Silica gel
• Makeup brush

1. Cut the calla lily stems to your desired length with a sharp razor blade. Leave no more than 1 inch of the stem to conserve space and ensure a speedy drying time.
2. Pour 1/2-inch of silica gel in a sealable container. The chosen container should be wide enough to hold all of the flowers without overlapping and tall enough to allow the flowers to stand straight up.
3. Place the flowers in the silica gel. Position each flower 1/2-inch apart from one another with their blooms facing upward.
4. Sprinkle more silica gel around the flowers until they’re completely covered. Add the silica gel gently and slowly to ensure the flowers retain their shape. Put a lid on the container.
5. Check the flowers daily until they feel completely dry and crisp, but not quite brittle. Depending on the size of the calla lilies, this may take anywhere from three days to two weeks.
6. Pour the silica gel out of the container once the flowers are dry. Be cautious when pouring to avoid damage to the flowers.
7. Brush any remaining silica gel off the flowers with a soft makeup brush.