How to Remove Mold from Dried Flowers?

To save your dried flowers from mold, the most effective method is often to remove the mold using salt, followed by ensuring proper drying and storage conditions to prevent its recurrence.

The Salt Method for Mold Removal

This technique is simple and effective for gently scrubbing away mold or mildew from delicate dried petals without causing damage.

Here's how to do it:

1. Prepare the Container: Get a large bag or a sturdy container. It should be big enough to comfortably hold your dried flowers without crushing them.
2. Add Salt: Pour a generous amount of common table salt into the bag or container. You'll need enough to cover the flowers.
3. Place Flowers: Carefully place your moldy dried flowers on top of the salt.
4. Cover with Salt: Gently sprinkle or pour more salt over the petals, ensuring they are adequately covered.
5. Shake Gently: Close the bag or container securely. Being as careful as possible to avoid damaging the flowers, gently shake the bag or container. The salt acts as a mild abrasive, lightly scrubbing away the mold or mildew from the flower surfaces.
6. Inspect and Repeat (if necessary): After a few minutes of gentle shaking, carefully remove the flowers and inspect them. If some mold remains, you can repeat the process with fresh salt.

Why Mold Appears on Dried Flowers

Mold typically forms on dried flowers due to the presence of moisture. Even seemingly dry flowers can harbor enough residual moisture for mold spores (which are ubiquitous in the air) to germinate and grow. Common reasons include:

• Incomplete Drying: Flowers were not fully dried before storage.
• High Humidity: Storage in a humid environment allows moisture to be reabsorbed.
• Poor Air Circulation: Lack of airflow prevents moisture evaporation and creates stagnant conditions conducive to mold.

Preventing Mold on Dried Flowers

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to mold on dried flowers. By following these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk:

• Thorough Drying: This is the most crucial step. Ensure flowers are completely dry before storing them. Methods include:
  • Air Drying: Hang flowers upside down in a dark, warm, and well-ventilated area for several weeks.
  • Silica Gel: For faster drying and better preservation of color, bury flowers in silica gel.
  • Pressing: While primarily for flattening, pressing also removes moisture.
• Proper Storage:
  • Airtight Containers: Store fully dried flowers in airtight containers to protect them from humidity and pests.
  • Desiccants: Include a small packet of desiccant (like silica gel packets) in the storage container to absorb any lingering moisture.
  • Optimal Environment: Store containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, high humidity areas (like bathrooms or basements), and significant temperature fluctuations.
• Good Air Circulation: Even in storage, a little airflow can help prevent moisture buildup. Avoid packing flowers too tightly.

Here's a quick comparison of mold prevention vs. removal strategies:

By understanding both prevention and effective removal techniques like the salt method, you can keep your dried floral arrangements beautiful for much longer.