How to Dry Oranges to Use in Flower Arrangements

Get more creative with your next flower arrangement by adding oranges. Orange slices add a splash of color and interest to an otherwise plain or common arrangement. They can be used in floral wreaths, including ones used as a fall decoration. Dried sliced oranges can also be placed inside a clear vase to anchor flower stems in a dried or artificial flower arrangement. You can also string orange slices with other fruits and flowers to make a one-of-a-kind Christmas tree garland.

Scrub brush
Cutting board
Knife
Needle
Bowl
Ascorbic acid
Cookie sheet or drying tray

Instructions

- 1
  Scrub the outside of a bright, thick-skinned orange with a plastic scrub brush. Rinse well. Navel oranges have thick skins and are a good choice for drying.
- 2
  Hold the orange so the brown spot where the stem was located is on the side, not the top. Cut the orange into 1/4-inch slices. Throw out the end pieces.
- 3
  Poke a hole with a thick needle in the center of the orange slices where you plan to attach the orange to the floral sticks. This step is optional and varies depending on your project.
- 4
  Soak the orange slices in ascorbic acid for 10 minutes to prevent them from losing their color and developing a bacterial contamination during the drying process. Drain the slices well in a colander after soaking.
- 5
  Arrange the slices in a single layer on a cookie sheet or drying tray. They should not be touching. Set the tray or sheet in an oven or dehydrator. Set the temperature to 140 F and dry about six to 12 hours. About three to four hours into the process, turn the slices over for even drying.

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